Cystoid macular edema, also called CME, is an inflammatory eye condition that affects the macula or retina within the eye. Patients with this condition develop unusual fluid-filled cysts within the macula, which causes the retina to swell or retain fluid. Patients who develop any cystoid macular edema symptoms should contact an ophthalmologist immediately for further evaluation and care.
Eye Swelling or Inflammation
The primary symptom associated with cystoid macular edema is swelling or inflammation of the affected eye. Patients may notice that the affected eye appears unusually red or bloodshot. The eye may water more frequently than usual due to extensive retinal swelling, explains Sabates Eye Centers. Though eye swelling due to cystoid macular edema is typically painless, certain patients may experience mild tenderness when touching the affected eye. Patients who experience eye swelling should contact a medical professional as soon as possible to prevent permanent vision complications.
Blurred Vision
Patients with cystoid macular edema can experience significantly blurred or cloudy vision as a symptom of this condition, explain medical professionals at The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center in Ann Arbor. Blurred vision can make it difficult for an affected patient to see normally and may interfere with a patient's ability to drive or participate in normal, daily activities. This symptom of cystoid macular edema typically affects a patient's central vision, leaving the peripheral or side vision intact, explain health professionals with Sabates Eye Centers. Patients who experience persistently blurred vision should contact a doctor immediately as this cystoid macular edema symptom can also be a sign of alternate eye conditions, such as glaucoma.
Image Distortion
Cystoid macular edema can cause visual image distortion in affected patients, explains Alcon, Inc., a Hünenberg, Switzerland-based company that produces eye care products. Patients may notice that images perceived by the affected eye appear unusually dim or gray. Certain patients can also develop blind spots or missing areas of vision or may have difficulty distinguishing between different objects. These side effects should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible.
Changes in Color Perception
In certain cases, patients with cystoid macular edema can develop changes in color perception as a symptom of this condition, explains Alcon, Inc.. Colors can appear unusually dark or blurred to the affected eye. If these symptoms persist, affected patients should contact a doctor.
