What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a very rare eye condition in which the normally round, dome-like cornea (the clear front window of the eye) becomes thin and develops a cone-like bulge. Keratoconus literally means “cone-shaped cornea.” Keratoconus is often specifically treated by corneal specialists, who are ophthalmologists who have done specialized studies in the area of corneal diseases.
The cornea is a very important part of your eye. As light enters the eye, it refracts or focuses the light rays so you can see clearly. With keratoconus, the shape of the cornea is altered, distorting your vision. Keratoconus can make some activities such as driving, typing on a computer, watching television, and reading become increasingly difficult.
Symptoms of keratoconus?
Keratoconus usually affects both eyes, however the symptoms in each eye may differ. Surprisingly, this is not an eye condition that affects only the elderly.
Symptoms usually start to occur in people who are in their late teens and early twenties and may include:
• mild blurring of vision
• distortion of vision
• sensitivity to light
• glare
• slight irritation.
The rate of keratoconus progression varies. It will often progress slowly for 10 to 20 years and then suddenly stop.
What causes keratoconus?
The cause of keratoconus is still unknown. Some researchers believe genetics play a role since an estimated 10% of people with keratoconus also have a family member with the condition.
How is keratoconus treated?
Treatment will often depend on the severity of the condition. During early stages, vision can be corrected with eyeglasses. As the condition progresses, rigid contacts may need to be worn so light entering the eye is refracted evenly and vision is not distorted. You should also refrain from rubbing your eyes, as this can aggravate the thin corneal tissue and make symptoms worse. When good vision is no longer possible with contact lenses, a corneal transplant is recommended. This surgery is only necessary in about 10-20% of patients with keratoconus. In a corneal transplant, a cornea specialist removes the diseased cornea from your eye and replaces it with a healthy donor cornea. While a corneal transplant will relieve the symptoms of keratoconus, it may not provide you with flawless vision; eyeglasses or contacts may still be needed to achieve your best vision.