Macular Degeneration FAQs
Needless to say, as the body ages, various parts of our bodies will begin to operate less efficiently, and our eyesight is no different. Indeed, one of the leading ailments that appear as part of the aging process is the condition known as macular degeneration. In this condition, the macula, the part of the eye that helps you discern the world around you, begins to experience tissue deterioration. For people in Mankato and New Ulm, who are seeking an eye doctor with expertise in treating macular degeneration, we at Carlson Tillisch Eye Clinic welcome you to make an appointment with us to discuss treatment options for this condition.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Our eyes have light-sensitive tissues, known as the retina, that send nerve impulses to the optic nerve and brain to form visual images. In the middle of the retina is the macula, which has millions of cells that help provide sharp central and color vision. As we age, the macula can deteriorate, causing blurry central vision. It is this reason that makes it hard for people with macular degeneration to recognize familiar faces from a distance, drive, or even see the words on the pages of a book.
Is It Important to See an Eye Doctor for Macular Degeneration?
One of the reasons that annual visits with an optometrist are so important is to detect issues in the eye that may cause vision loss, like macular degeneration. This condition has two forms, dry and wet macular degeneration. The former affects up to 90% of patients and slowly generates symptoms without any noticeable pain. The latter, wet macular degeneration, happens when a blood vessel bursts and leaks fluid into the macula. In either case, quick medical intervention is necessary.
Are There Risk Factors?
While predominately a condition associated with the aging process, your eye doctor will note other risk factors that can heighten a patient’s exposure level, which include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Fatty diets
- Obesity
Is There a Cure?
Unfortunately, macular degeneration cannot be cured. It can be managed, however, to improve daily living situations, and regular visits to an eye care professional, such as the optometrists at Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic, can promptly diagnose any indications of the disease.
Come to Us for Macular Degeneration Care
While there is no cure, managing the symptoms of the disease is possible, and the caring staff at Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic is standing by in our Mankato and New Ulm, MN, clinic to help you or a family member experiencing issues with their vision. Contact us today at (507) 345-5087 (Mankato office) or (507) 354-7407 (New Ulm office) to schedule an appointment with our eye doctors who can quickly determine what is going on with that vision problem of yours.