Common Eye Diseases

Eye Diseases or Conditions that may be responsible for visual impairment. Some of the common causes include:

Macular Degeneration – A disorder that affects the retina, the light Sensitive area at the back of the eye where images are focused. The Macula is the area of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, Deteriorates, causing blurred vision, which may cause problems such As difficulty in reading, and for some individuals a blurred spot in the Central area of vision. The most common form of Age related Macular Degeneration(ARMD) is known as non-exudative, or “Dry” Form which usually results in more slowly progressive vision loss. more rapid and severe vision loss is associated with exudative, or the“Wet” form of macular degeneration, when abnormalities develop under the macula and leak fluid and blood. Both the exudative and the non-exudative forms of macular degeneration are age-related, and the leading cause of blindness in people over 50. Recent studies estimate that over 1.6 million Americans are affected. The exact cause is unknown. Although, age is the most important contributing factor in the development of macular degeneration, cigarette smoking and nutrition can also play a role in the development of ARMD. There are also juvenile forms which are hereditary and also result in vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy – Vision and/or visual functioning can fluctuate From day to day as a result of diabetes. Diabetes can cause blood Vessels that nourish the macular area to develop tiny, abnormal branches which leak. This can interfere with vision over time and may cause severe damage to the retina. Laser procedures and other treatments are used to reduce iots progression, but systemic control of the diabetes is the most important reputed factor.

Retinitis Pigmentosa – Retinitis Pigmentosa gradually destroys night Vision and severely reduces side or peripheral vision, and may result In total impairment. It is considered to be a hereditary disease, Usually producing its first symptom, night blindness, in childhood or adolescence.

Retinopathy of Prematurity(ROP) – Previously known as Retrolental Fibroplasia, ROP occurs in infants born prematurely and is caused by improper oxygen levels in incubators during the critical neonatal period.

Retinal Detachment– Retinal detachment may result in total impairment of the detached area of the affected eye. It involves the retina separating from the underlying layer. Causes are holes in the retina, trauma, infection, or a tumor. Through early diagnosis most detached retinas can be surgically re-attached with partial to complete restoration of vision if surgery is performed in a timely fashion.

Cataracts – A cataract is a clouding of part or all of the lens inside the eye with the clouding interfering with light reaching the retina at the back of the eye, resulting in a generalized loss of vision. Causes are aging, long-term exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, injury, disease and inherited disorders. If the eye is healthy, the cataract can be surgically removed and vision restored usually with intraocular lens implants. Cataract surgery has a high rate of success in otherwise healthy eyes. However, there are still individuals for whom cataract surgery is not possible, such as those with ocular disease(s) that may require low vision rehabilitation in order to maximize the remaining vision.

Glaucoma – Glaucoma is a form of damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision impairment. The optic nerve damage in glaucoma can be due to the pressure in the eye building up because of problems with the flow or drainage of fluid within the eye, or can result without increased intraocular pressure(low tension or normal tension glaucoma) due to insufficient blood to the optic nerve. There may be no warning signs or symptoms in the most common form (Open Angle Glaucoma), but the first signs of damage appears as peripheral vision defects and difficulty with night vision. Early diagnosis and treatment with the proper medications or sometimes surgery can minimize vision loss.

Acquired (Traumatic) Brain Injury – Vision can also be lost or Damaged as a result of head injuries, brain damage and stroke. Signs and symptoms can include reduced visual acuity, visual field, Or contrast sensitivity, blurred vision, poor judgment or depth, glare Sensitivity, confusion when performing visual tasks, difficulty Reading, double vision, headaches, dizziness, abnormal posture, and Balance problems.

Serving Coral Springs and South Florida

Dr. K is the premiere eye doctor and professional sports & athletic optometrist based in Margate, FL.

Office Hours

Monday   9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Tuesday  9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Wed        9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Thursday 9 A M. to 5 P.M. Friday      9 A.M. to 5 P.M.

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Dr. Steven R. Koganovsky | Board Certified Optometric Physician
101 North State Road 7 Suite 103      Margate, Florida 33063
Office Telephone 954-972-6934      Fax 954-972-6946