If retinal swelling, bleeding or build-up of fat extends to the area of accurate vision in the centre of the macula, it can result in loss of central vision. This is called maculopathy. Maculopathy can also impair your colour vision, sensitivity to contrast and reading vision. It can also make lines look distorted.
Swelling in the centre of retina requires an eye specialist’s assessment of the situation and need for treatment in the next few weeks. Normally, central swelling is treated with injecting medicine into the vitreous. Laser treatment may be an option if the changes are located further away from the central area. In some cases, in monitoring, minor swelling may go away even if it is not treated, especially in young people with type 1 diabetes.