Diabetic Retinopathy vs. Diabetic Macular Edema: What’s the Difference?

cannot develop diabetic macular edema without diabetic retinopathy.

No surprise here, but the best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema is to manage your diabetes. You should keep your blood sugar levels within a suitable range, monitor the foods you are eating, exercise regularly, keep your A1C levels within the recommended age and follow the guidelines for insulin or other diabetes medications you are currently taking.

If you need additional help, your diabetes care team can help you manage the condition. Your care team may suggest a hemoglobin A1C test, which can help you monitor your blood sugar levels.

Blood pressure and cholesterol also impact those living with diabetes so it will be important to manage these as well.

Everyone should get yearly eye exams, but for those living with diabetes, yearly checkups are even more important. An eye doctor can check your eye health and identify any conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy in its early stages when it is easier to treat. Eye doctors can also monitor any existing eye problems you may have.

When to see a doctor

If you notice any changes to your vision, such as blurriness, contact your doctor for an eye exam. If you are already living with diabetic retinopathy and notice your symptoms are worsening, contact your doctor immediately. He or she can determine if you may have developed diabetic macular edema and prevent any other complications from forming.

June 29, 2023 by Cara Jones