Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Keratoconus, a progressive eye disease that typically begins in one's teens or early twenties, causes the cornea— the clear, front part of the eye— to become thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion is small but significant, impacting the way light enters the eye and subsequently, how we see the world.

Understanding the Causes of Keratoconus

The exact cause of keratoconus remains a mystery to the medical world. It's believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Some research suggests that keratoconus may be linked to certain allergies or even excessive eye rubbing, both of which can cause the cornea to weaken and thin over time.

Contrary to what some may believe, keratoconus isn't caused by poor vision or misuse of contact lenses. It's a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time without treatment. It's important to note that the rate at which keratoconus progresses can vary greatly from person to person. 

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Recognizing the symptoms of keratoconus early can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Symptoms often start subtly and gradually worsen over time. Symptoms of keraptoconus include slight blurring, distortion in vision, increased light sensitivity and eye strain.

Another telling sign of keratoconus is frequent changes in eyeglass prescription. If you find yourself needing a new prescription more often than usual, it might be worth getting checked for keratoconus. In later stages, you may also notice a pronounced bulging of the eye.

Some may experience rapid progression, while others may see a gradual worsening of vision over several years.

Early Detection of Keratoconus

Regular eye exams are crucial in early detection of keratoconus. Because the early signs of keratoconus can be subtle, they can often go unnoticed without a thorough eye exam. Regular eye exams can catch keratoconus in its early stages, before it significantly impacts your vision.

Regular eye exams are particularly essential for teens and young adults, as this is when keratoconus typically begins to develop. If you have a family history of keratoconus or have noticed any changes in your vision.

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

Living with keratoconus means navigating a range of treatment options. The right treatment can depend on several factors, including the stage of keratoconus, the rate of progression, and your lifestyle.

In the early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may suffice to correct vision. However, as the condition progresses, you may need to switch to hard or scleral contact lenses, specially designed to correct the irregular shape of the cornea caused by keratoconus.

For those with advanced keratoconus, there are surgical options available. Corneal cross-linking is a procedure that can slow or even halt the progression of keratoconus by strengthening the cornea. In more severe cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary.

Preventive Measures Against Keratoconus

While there's no surefire way to prevent keratoconus, there are steps you can take to protect your eye health. Avoiding eye rubbing, for instance, can help prevent further thinning of the cornea. If you have allergies that cause itchy eyes, consider seeking treatment or using allergy eye drops.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also boost overall eye health. This includes eating a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep. Regular exercise is also beneficial, as it helps improve blood circulation, including to the eyes.

Conclusion

Living with keratoconus is a journey of learning, adaptation, and resilience. With the right knowledge, treatment, and care, it's entirely possible to lead a normal life.

For more information on the causes, symptoms and treatment options for keratoconus, visit Southwest Orlando Eye Care at our office in Orlando, Florida. Call or text (407) 271-8931 to schedule an appointment today.