Our Optometrists Can Help Manage Your
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss for people who are over age 65. Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic in Mankato and New Ulm, MN, is a leading optometrist in the area that helps diagnose and manage this eye condition. Even with a diagnosis, our team can do our part to help you achieve a better quality of life.
How Macular Degeneration Can Affect You
The macula is the part of your retina that helps you see the world. With aging, tissues in the macula can slowly begin to deteriorate, which will cause your central vision to become blurry. You might find it more difficult to recognize a familiar face from far away, read a book, and even drive a car.
There are different types of macular degeneration as well. The dry form is more common, affecting up to 90 percent of people who get diagnosed. It often develops slowly with symptoms that have no pain. For this reason, it's imperative to get your annual comprehensive eye exam with our eye doctors.
Conversely, wet macular degeneration occurs when a blood vessel bursts and leaks fluid into the macula. This type is much more severe, and the symptoms develop much more rapidly. Some signs of wet macular degeneration include:
- straight lines appear wavy or bent
- central vision distortion
- colors seem less vibrant
People At Risk for Macular Degeneration
While there are some genetic connections to developing this eye disease, the most common factor is age. Individuals over the age of 60 should always consult with an eye doctor should they have concerns or questions about macular degeneration. However, other things could increase your risk level, such as:
- obesity or smoking
- high blood pressure
- higher fat diets
A lifestyle that includes plenty of exercise with a proper diet and visits to our eye doctors can reduce your risk. Our optometrists at Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic can provide you with further guidance on how to have optimal eye health.
Managing Macular Degeneration
Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for macular degeneration, but it can be managed to help you preserve your vision. At Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic, we use the latest technological advancements to help you manage it. Again, it all starts with a comprehensive eye exam. The earlier we catch it, the easier it will be to help control vision loss.
Contact Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic to Schedule An Appointment
Having a macular degeneration diagnosis doesn't mean you'll go completely blind, but you will need help from a trusted optometrist. If you are experiencing any symptoms of this eye condition or you are overdue on an eye exam, please feel free to call Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic in Mankato and New Ulm, MN, to schedule an appointment with our eye doctors. Call (507) 345-5087 for the Mankato office or (507) 354-7407 for the New Ulm office.