Macular edema is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy. In this condition, swelling (edema) occurs in the macula, an area near the center of the retina that is responsible for fine or reading vision. The leaking fluid causes swelling, which causes blurred vision.

It is treated with laser surgery. A laser beam is used to seal the blood vessels in order to stop their sight-impairing leakage. However, laser surgery cannot restore vision that has already been lost. That is why finding diabetic retinopathy early is the best way to prevent vision loss.

Sources:

• NIDDK. Prevent diabetes problems: Keep your eyes healthy. May 2000.
• National Eye Institute. Facts about diabetic eye disease. June 2000.
• National Eye Institute. Don't lose sight of diabetic eye disease. June 2000.