Cystoid macular edema is a condition affecting the retina. Although painless the condition can be irritating but normally clears up effectively with treatment.

Overview of cystoid macular edema

This medical condition affects either the central retina or the macula and causes small cyst like swellings to develop in the macula. This then leads to retinal swelling or edema. The direct cause of cystoid macular edema remains unknown although studies suggest that it may accompany certain diseases including retinal vein occlusion, uveitis or diabetes. It also appears to occur more commonly in individuals who have had cataracts surgery. Results of studies have revealed that between 1 and 3 percent of people who undergo a cataracts extraction will suffer from problems with their vision as a result of cystoid macular edema within a year after the procedure. Most people who are going to suffer from the condition will do so from two to four months after the procedure. Additionally there is an increased risk for an individual who has suffered from Cystoid macular edema in one eye to go on to develop the condition in the other eye. Although problematic die to decreases vision, the condition is not painful and most patients respond successfully to treatment.

Symptoms of cystoid macular edema

The primary symptoms of this condition are:

• A blurred or decreases central vision. This condition will have no effect on the peripheral or side vision. 
• Retinal inflammation or swelling. This symptom most commonly occurs following a cataract surgery and once again is not painful.

If you are experiencing one or both of these symptoms that it is possible that you are suffering from cystoid macular edema. However these symptoms also occur in other illnesses and conditions so it is not definitely due to this disorder. Anyone suffering from blurred vision or retinal inflammation should have it checked out by a medical professional as it may be a symptom of something more serious. Either way, it is important to be properly diagnosed so that the appropriate treatment can be started. In the case of cystoid macular edema treatment is very effective.

Treatment for cystoid macular edema

Treatment will vary and depend primarily on the cause of the cystoid macular edema. Once an ophthalmologist has diagnosed the condition, treatment will be prescribed. If the cause is unclear, a number of treatments may be tried before finding one that is effective. Anti-inflammatory medicines are usually prescribed for the swelling, given in the form of eye drops.