Keratoconus is an eye disorder that affects the cornea, causing it to thin and gradually bulge into a cone-like shape over time.

This can cause a range of visual disturbances, including blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Although keratoconus can occur at any age, it typically develops during adolescence and early adulthood. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for keratoconus.

Causes of Keratoconus

The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may be involved. Some of the factors that may increase the risk of developing keratoconus include:.

Family history of keratoconus
Excessive eye rubbing
Chronic eye inflammation
Connective tissue disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome
Down syndrome

While it’s important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will develop keratoconus, it’s still a good idea to talk to your eye doctor if you have any concerns.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus symptoms can vary from person to person, and they may worsen over time. Some common symptoms of keratoconus include:.

Blurred or distorted vision
Sensitivity to light
Glare and halos around lights
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
Difficulty seeing at night

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. In some cases, keratoconus may be diagnosed during routine eye exams before symptoms appear.

Diagnosing Keratoconus

Diagnosing keratoconus typically involves a detailed eye exam that may include:.

Slit-lamp exam: This exam uses a microscope to examine the cornea for signs of thinning and bulging.
Corneal topography: This non-invasive test creates a detailed map of the cornea’s surface to help identify irregularities and deviations.
Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of the cornea, which can be an indicator of keratoconus.

Based on the results of these tests, your eye doctor can determine whether you have keratoconus and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

The goal of keratoconus treatment is to improve vision and prevent further progression of the disorder. Some treatment options include:.

Eyeglasses or contact lenses: Mild to moderate cases of keratoconus may be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or specialized contact lenses designed for people with irregular corneas.
Cross-linking: This procedure involves applying a special solution to the cornea and then using a ultraviolet light to strengthen the corneal tissue and prevent further bulging.
Intrastromal corneal ring segments: These are small, crescent-shaped devices that are inserted into the cornea to help reshape it and improve vision.
Corneal transplant: In severe cases of keratoconus where other treatments aren’t effective, a corneal transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea.

Depending on the severity of your keratoconus, your eye doctor may recommend one or more of these treatment options to improve your vision and prevent further damage to your corneas.

Living with Keratoconus

If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus, it’s important to take steps to protect your vision and manage your symptoms. Some tips for living with keratoconus include:.

Avoid rubbing your eyes
Protect your eyes from UV rays with sunglasses
Use artificial tears to relieve dry eyes
Follow your eye doctor’s treatment plan

By following these tips and seeking prompt treatment for your keratoconus, you can help maintain healthy vision and prevent further progression of the disorder.

Final Thoughts

Keratoconus can be a challenging disorder to manage, but with the right treatment and care, it’s possible to maintain good vision and prevent further damage to your corneas.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of keratoconus or have concerns about your eye health, be sure to talk to your eye doctor as soon as possible.