What is Macular Edema?
Macular edema is a condition that occurs when fluid builds up within the macular, the central area of the retina most critical for vision. The buildup of fluid causes the macula to swell, disrupting its normal shape. This results to damage of vision.
Symptoms
Symptoms of macular edema include the following:
- Blurred vision
- Distortion of images
- Missing areas
- A change of contrast in vision
Left untreated the swelling can cause these vision problems to progressively worsen. If any of these vision problems occur, speak with an eye care professional immediately.
What is Macular Pucker?
The macula is the area of the retina that is responsible for clear vision. As a person ages, the vitreous inside of the eye begins to shrink. When this occurs in the macular area, the retina initiates a healing response with a migration of cells found within the retina itself. These cells form a thin layer of scar tissue known as a macular pucker or epiretinal membrane.