What to Know About Keratoconus

What is Keratoconus

- A progressive eye condition in which the cornea, the clear, round, dome-shaped front cover of the eye, gradually thins and bulges outward into a cone-like shape.

What causes Keratoconus?

- Exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic and environmental factors.

Who is at risk?

- It can affect people of any age, but it usually begins in the late teens or early 20s.

- Certain conditions and factors increase the risk of keratoconus such as:

- A family history of Keratoconus

- Eye allergies or chronic eye rubbing

- Certain connective tissue diseases, such as Marfan syndrome

What are the symptoms?

- May not notice any changes in your vision at first

- As the cornea changes shape, it can lead to a number of symptoms, including:

- Blurred vision

- Streaks or ghosting around images

- Increased sensitivity to light

- Difficulty seeing at night

- Double vision

- Eye irritation or pain

How is Keratoconus diagnosed?

- Eye doctor can diagnose keratoconus during a comprehensive eye exam.

- Tests may include:

- Visual acuity test

- Refraction test

- Corneal topography

- Slit-lamp examination

How is Keratoconus treated?

-Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the condition.

-Options may include:

- Eyeglasses or contact lenses: To correct vision and slow the progression of the condition.

-Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL): A procedure that uses ultraviolet light and a riboflavin solution to strengthen and stabilize the cornea.

- Intacs: Tiny, thin, plastic implants that are inserted into the cornea to help reshape it.

-Corneal transplant: In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy one.

What is the prognosis for Keratoconus?

-With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with keratoconus can achieve good vision and maintain it for many years.

-However, the condition can progress over time and may eventually require a corneal transplant.