Diabetic macular edema, or DME, mainly affects central vision. People with symptoms of diabetic macular edema may notice blur, distortion, more difficulty reading fine detail, faded or washed-out colours, or a dark or empty area in the centre of vision. Some people notice few or no symptoms early on, which is one reason DME may be found during eye examinations or imaging.
What symptoms people may notice with DME
DME mainly affects central vision. Common symptoms include:
- blur
- distortion (straight lines may look bent or wavy)
- more difficulty reading fine detail
- faded or washed-out colours
- a dark or empty area in the centre of vision
Can DME cause no symptoms?
Yes. Some people notice few or no symptoms early on, especially if swelling is mild or if one eye is compensating for the other. That is one reason DME may be found during eye examinations or imaging.
How DME symptoms are often described
Symptoms are often described as reduced sharpness rather than pain. Straight lines may look bent or wavy, and tasks such as reading, screen use, or recognizing detail may become harder.
How the cause of DME symptoms is assessed
Symptoms alone cannot confirm DME. A dilated eye examination and retinal imaging such as OCT are commonly used to show whether macular swelling is present.
Read more: When should DME be referred to a retina specialist?
Key takeaway
The symptoms of DME usually involve central blur or distortion, but some people may have little to notice early on.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common symptoms of DME?
DME mainly affects central vision. People may notice blur, distortion, more difficulty reading fine detail, faded or washed-out colours, or a dark or empty area in the centre of vision.
Can you have DME without noticing symptoms?
Yes. Some people notice few or no symptoms early on, especially if swelling is mild or if one eye is compensating for the other.
Is DME painful?
Symptoms are often described as reduced sharpness rather than pain.
How is DME confirmed?
Symptoms alone cannot confirm DME. A dilated eye examination and retinal imaging such as OCT are commonly used to show whether macular swelling is present.
Retina care and referrals in Hamilton
Retina Consultants of Hamilton provides educational information on macular conditions, and Precision Retina Care accepts patient referrals from optometrists and referring physicians in the Hamilton area. Learn more about how DME is managed or visit our referral information page.
Related reading:
General educational information only. This page is not a substitute for an eye examination or individualized medical advice. Specific referral, testing, and treatment decisions depend on clinical assessment.
Reviewed by Dr. Varun Chaudhary, vitreoretinal specialist, Retina Consultants of Hamilton.