Retinal Conditions - Cystoid Macular Edema
Accumulation of fluid in the central area of the retina, the macula where we obtain fine detailed vision, is described most commonly as cystoid macular edema.
This occurs quite commonly in the setting of intraocular inflammation, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, and after intraocular surgery. The swelling or accumulation of fluid in the central area of vision leads to blurred vision that oftentimes mimics looking at objects while under water.

Cystoid macular edema is treated a number of ways depending on the level of swelling.
Anti-inflammatory drops and/or oral medications along with possible intraocular medications can be used to dry up the fluid. In addition, we sometimes use oral medications to increase the pump function of the layer beneath the retina to dry the retinal layers. Cystoid macular edema is more often than not treated successfully with aggressive therapy that may be pursued by your retina specialist.