What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a corneal disorder in which the cornea thins and changes shape, causing vision to become blurry and distorted. This condition develops gradually, most often starting between the ages of 10 and 25 and is progressive. It can affect both eyes but usually affects one eye more than the other.
As keratoconus progresses, the cornea bulges outward into a cone shape. As the corneal shape becomes irregular, scarring may occur.
Experts have been unable to determine the exact cause of this condition, but believe that it is rooted in genetic and environmental factors.
What are the signs and symptoms of Keratoconus?
The following may vary as the condition progresses:
- Irregular astigmatism
- Rapidly changing prescription
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Light and glare sensitivity
- Issues with night driving
- Worsening or clouding of vision
How is Keratoconus treated?
Keratoconus treatment depends on your symptoms and rate of progression.
Primary treatment is vision correction! When symptoms are mild, vision can be corrected with eyeglasses and soft contact lenses. As the condition progresses, specialty contact lenses are key to proper in focus vision. Custom designed specialty contact lenses optically correct for the distortion that results from the corneas irregular shape, allowing clear and comfortable vision.
Surgical treatment options include corneal cross-linking, intacs, and corneal transplantation, however not every patient is a candidate for these procedures. A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to assess your eyesight and best treatment for your eyes.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Specialty contact lenses are custom designed lenses which help to restore clear and comfortable vision in patients with keratoconus, post-LASIK or RK ectasia, post-corneal transplantation, and severe dry eye.
Our office is equipped with the most advanced diagnostic technology to assist in examination, diagnosis, and the fitting of these lenses.
Specialty contact lenses include:
- Scleral and mini-scleral lenses
- Hybrid lenses
- Corneal RGP lenses
- Custom soft contact lenses
- Piggyback system lenses
Call our office to learn more!