KERATOCONUS

Introduction to Keratoconus

If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus, you might have questions about how it will affect your vision and your future. Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that impacts the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front part of your eye. As the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone-like shape, it can distort your vision. The good news is that there are many ways to manage keratoconus and improve your quality of life.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus changes the shape and structure of your cornea, affecting how light enters your eye. This can lead to blurry or distorted vision and other symptoms such as increased sensitivity to light. Let’s explore the causes of this condition and how it can be treated.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of keratoconus isn’t fully understood, but certain factors may increase your risk:

GENETICS:

  • Keratoconus often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.

Eye Rubbing:

  • Chronic eye rubbing is a significant risk factor and may accelerate the progression of keratoconus.

Other Factors:

  • Environmental factors such as exposure to UV light and certain systemic conditions like asthma or eczema may also play a role.

Symptoms and Progression

Common symptoms of keratoconus include:

Blurred Vision:

  • Vision may become blurry or distorted as the cornea changes shape.

Sensitivity to Light:

  • You might notice an increased sensitivity to bright lights.

Ghosting or Double Vision:

  • Multiple images may appear due to corneal irregularities.

Eye Irritation:

  • You may experience mild irritation or discomfort in your eyes.

Keratoconus typically starts in the teenage years or early adulthood and progresses at different rates for each person.

Diagnosis of Keratoconus

To diagnose keratoconus, your eye care professional will perform a comprehensive eye examination that includes:

Visual Acuity Testing:

  • Measures how clearly you can see.

Retinoscopy:

  • Uses a retinoscope to measure how light is reflected by your retina and assess refractive error

Slit-Lamp Examination:

  • Examines your cornea and other eye structures for signs of keratoconus and other abnormalities.

Corneal Topography:

  • Maps your cornea’s curvature and thickness, providing detailed information about its shape and irregularities. This imaging technique uses a specialized camera to create a color-coded map of the cornea’s surface, which is essential for diagnosing keratoconus and monitoring its progression.

Pachymetry:

  • Measures the thickness of your cornea to check for thinning.

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

There are several ways to manage keratoconus and improve your vision:

Non-Surgical Treatments

Prescription Glasses:

  • Glasses can help correct mild vision problems in the early stages of keratoconus.

Contact Lenses:

  • Specialty contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) and scleral lenses, can offer better vision correction.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses:

    • These lenses create a smooth surface for light to focus correctly, improving your vision.

Scleral Contact Lenses:

    • Scleral lenses are larger lenses that rest on the white part of your eye (sclera). They vault over the cornea, smoothing out the irregular surface and providing excellent vision correction. These lenses are comfortable and custom-made for your eye shape.

Surgical Treatments

In more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be required. Here are some of the options available:

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL):

  • Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive procedure that uses riboflavin eye drops and UV light to strengthen your cornea. By creating new cross-links between collagen fibers in the cornea, the procedure can slow or stop the progression of keratoconus and improve corneal stability.

Corneal Cross-Linking Combined with Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK):

  • This combination treatment can be particularly effective for keratoconus patients. PTK uses an excimer laser to smooth the cornea’s surface by removing a thin layer of tissue. When combined with corneal cross-linking, PTK can improve visual acuity and correct refractive errors while also stabilizing the cornea. This approach can provide better overall outcomes for patients with keratoconus.

Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS):

  • Small, crescent-shaped devices inserted into your cornea to reshape it and improve your vision.

Topography-Guided Surface Ablation (TREK):

  • TREK is a laser procedure that uses topographical mapping to guide the laser treatment. It reshapes the cornea according to its specific irregularities, improving visual acuity and corneal symmetry.

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK):

  • PRK is a laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea’s surface, benefiting keratoconus patients by smoothing out corneal irregularities.

Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK):

  • DALK is a partial-thickness corneal transplant that replaces the damaged outer layers of the cornea while preserving the inner layer (endothelium). This reduces the risk of rejection and other complications.

Living with Keratoconus

Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but there are ways to manage the condition:

Regular Eye Examinations:

 Regular check-ups help monitor your condition and adjust treatments as needed.

Eye Protection:

  • Avoiding eye rubbing and using protective eyewear can prevent further damage to your cornea

Support Groups:

  • Joining a support group can provide emotional support and practical advice. Check out resources like Keratoconus Group for more information and support.

Personal Stories and Testimonials

Hearing from others who have keratoconus can be inspiring and encouraging. Their stories can offer insights into living with the condition and the impact of different treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Keratoconus

Here are some common questions about keratoconus and their answers:

The exact cause isn’t fully known, but genetics and environmental factors play a role.

    • Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, light sensitivity, and ghosting or double vision.
    • Options include glasses, specialty contact lenses (especially scleral lenses), and corneal cross-linking. Surgical options include intracorneal ring segments, TREK, PRK, and DALK.
    • Diagnosis involves an eye examination, including visual acuity testing, retinoscopy, slit-lamp examination, corneal topography, and pachymetry.
    • Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens your cornea using riboflavin eye drops and UV light. It can slow or stop keratoconus progression.
    • Corneal cross-linking combined with phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is a treatment option that combines the cornea-stabilizing effects of cross-linking with the surface smoothing benefits of PTK. This combination can improve visual acuity and correct refractive errors while stabilizing the cornea.
    • There is no cure, but treatments like corneal cross-linking can slow or stop its progression, and other treatments can improve vision.
    • Scleral lenses are larger lenses that rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea, providing a smooth optical surface. RGP lenses are smaller lenses that rest directly on the cornea.
    • People with keratoconus should have regular follow-up appointments to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as needed.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing, protecting your eyes from UV light, and wearing protective eyewear can help manage keratoconus and prevent further progression.
    • Scleral contact lenses provide excellent vision correction and comfort by vaulting over the cornea and resting on the sclera. They also create a tear-filled space that smooths out irregularities in the cornea’s surface.
    • PKP, or full-thickness corneal transplant, replaces the entire cornea with healthy donor tissue. It is a treatment option for advanced keratoconus and can significantly improve vision.
    • DALK is a partial-thickness corneal transplant that replaces the damaged outer layers of the cornea while preserving the inner layer (endothelium). This procedure reduces the risk of rejection and other complications.
    • TREK is a laser procedure that uses corneal topography to guide the laser treatment. It reshapes the cornea according to its specific irregularities, improving visual acuity and corneal symmetry.
    • Keratoconus is an eye condition where the clear front part of your eye (the cornea) gets thin and changes shape, which can cause blurry vision.
    • Doctors classify keratoconus by how much the cornea is affected and how fast the condition progresses.
    • The cost depends on the treatment you choose and the clinic you visit.
    • Glasses and contact lenses might be more affordable, while surgeries could cost more.
    • Surgery costs can vary depending on the procedure and the healthcare provider.
    • Let’s talk about the different options and costs that could work for you.
    • C3R (corneal cross-linking) treatment costs depend on where you live and the medical provider.
    • It’s important to consider the doctor’s experience and the facility’s reputation.
    • This can slowC3R, or corneal cross-linking, helps strengthen the cornea with special eye drops and UV light.
    • down or stop the progression of keratoconus.
    • A keratoconus specialist is an eye doctor who has expertise in diagnosing and treating keratoconus.
    • Typically, they are ophthalmologists with special training in corneal conditions and diseases.
    • These specialists often have a fellowship in cornea and external eye diseases from a reputable institute.
    • They can provide tailored treatment plans for keratoconus, ranging from non-surgical options to advanced surgical interventions.
    • Their knowledge helps guide you through all stages of managing keratoconus and keeping your vision as clear as possible.
    • The cost depends on the treatment you need and where you go for care.
    • Glasses and contact lenses might be more affordable, while surgeries could cost more.
    • Keratoconus doesn’t usually lead to blindness.
    • But, in severe cases, it can cause vision problems.
    • Early treatment helps keep your vision stable.
    • Keratoconus can cause serious vision problems, but blindness is rare.
    • We can work together to find the right treatment plan for you.
    • With proper care, blindness can be avoided.
    • Early diagnosis and ongoing care can help you keep your vision.

Keratoconus can’t be completely cured, but we have effective treatments.

    • Options like corneal cross-linking and special contact lenses can slow progression and improve vision.
    • Keratoconus can be serious if it’s not treated, as it may get worse over time.
    • Early diagnosis and management can help stabilize your condition.
    • If keratoconus affects your vision a lot, you may qualify for low vision accommodations for UPSC exams.
    • Check with your eye doctor and the exam board for more details
    • Allergic conjunctivitis can cause eye rubbing, which may make keratoconus worse.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing is very important for managing keratoconus.
      • Symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, light sensitivity, ghosting or double vision, and mild eye irritation.
      • These symptoms can vary depending on how serious your condition is
    • Special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and scleral lenses, provide better vision correction.
    • Scleral lenses cover the cornea and smooth out its surface.
    • Non-surgical treatments include prescription glasses and specialty contact lenses.
    • These options can help manage vision problems in the early stages of keratoconus.
    • Keratoconus can cause blurry or distorted vision due to changes in the cornea’s shape.
    • Vision problems can make everyday tasks like driving, reading, or using a computer more challenging.
  1. hat are the signs of keratoconus?
    • Signs include sudden changes in vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eye irritation.
    • Ghosting (seeing double) or streaking lights might also be noticeable.
    • Corneal topography maps the shape and curvature of the cornea.
    • This helps us understand the extent of irregularities and guide treatment decisions.
    • Eye drops alone can’t cure keratoconus, but they can be used in treatments like corneal cross-linking.
    • Riboflavin eye drops are used with UV light to strengthen the cornea and slow keratoconus progression.
    • Scleral lenses rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea.
    • They provide great vision correction and comfort by creating a smooth surface over your cornea.
    • Doctors classify keratoconus by how much the cornea is affected and how fast the condition progresses.
    • C3R (corneal cross-linking) treatment costs depend on where you live and the medical provider.
    • It’s important to consider the doctor’s experience and the facility’s reputation.
    • A keratoconus specialist is an eye doctor who has expertise in diagnosing and treating keratoconus.
    • Typically, they are ophthalmologists with special training in corneal conditions and diseases.
    • These specialists often have a fellowship in cornea and external eye diseases from a reputable institute.
    • They can provide tailored treatment plans for keratoconus, ranging from non-surgical options to advanced surgical interventions.
    • Their knowledge helps guide you through all stages of managing keratoconus and keeping your vision as clear as possible.
    • Keratoconus can be serious if it’s not treated, as it may get worse over time.
    • Early diagnosis and management can help stabilize your condition.
    • If keratoconus affects your vision a lot, you may qualify for low vision accommodations for UPSC exams.
    • Check with your eye doctor and the exam board for more details.
    • Allergic conjunctivitis can cause eye rubbing, which may make keratoconus worse.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing is very important for managing keratoconus.
    • Symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, light sensitivity, ghosting or double vision, and mild eye irritation.
    • These symptoms can vary depending on how serious your condition is.
    • Special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and scleral lenses, provide better vision correction.
    • Scleral lenses cover the cornea and smooth out its surface.
    • Non-surgical treatments include prescription glasses and specialty contact lenses.
    • These options can help manage vision problems in the early stages of keratoconus.
    • Keratoconus can cause blurry or distorted vision due to changes in the cornea’s shape.
        • Vision problems can make everyday tasks like driving, reading, or using a computer more challenging.
    • Signs include sudden changes in vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eye irritation.
    • Ghosting (seeing double) or streaking lights might also be noticeable.
    • Corneal topography maps the shape and curvature of the cornea.
    • This helps us understand the extent of irregularities and guide treatment decisions.
    • Eye drops alone can’t cure keratoconus, but they can be used in treatments like corneal cross-linking.
    • Riboflavin eye drops are used with UV light to strengthen the cornea and slow keratoconus progression.
    • Scleral lenses rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea.

The exact cause isn’t fully known, but genetics and environmental factors play a role.

    • Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, light sensitivity, and ghosting or double vision.
    • Options include glasses, specialty contact lenses (especially scleral lenses), and corneal cross-linking. Surgical options include intracorneal ring segments, TREK, PRK, and DALK.
    • Diagnosis involves an eye examination, including visual acuity testing, retinoscopy, slit-lamp examination, corneal topography, and pachymetry.
    • Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens your cornea using riboflavin eye drops and UV light. It can slow or stop keratoconus progression.
    • Corneal cross-linking combined with phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is a treatment option that combines the cornea-stabilizing effects of cross-linking with the surface smoothing benefits of PTK. This combination can improve visual acuity and correct refractive errors while stabilizing the cornea.
    • There is no cure, but treatments like corneal cross-linking can slow or stop its progression, and other treatments can improve vision.
    • Scleral lenses are larger lenses that rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea, providing a smooth optical surface. RGP lenses are smaller lenses that rest directly on the cornea.
    • People with keratoconus should have regular follow-up appointments to monitor the condition and adjust treatments as needed.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing, protecting your eyes from UV light, and wearing protective eyewear can help manage keratoconus and prevent further progression.
    • Scleral contact lenses provide excellent vision correction and comfort by vaulting over the cornea and resting on the sclera. They also create a tear-filled space that smooths out irregularities in the cornea’s surface.
    • PKP, or full-thickness corneal transplant, replaces the entire cornea with healthy donor tissue. It is a treatment option for advanced keratoconus and can significantly improve vision.
    • DALK is a partial-thickness corneal transplant that replaces the damaged outer layers of the cornea while preserving the inner layer (endothelium). This procedure reduces the risk of rejection and other complications.
    • TREK is a laser procedure that uses corneal topography to guide the laser treatment. It reshapes the cornea according to its specific irregularities, improving visual acuity and corneal symmetry.
    • Keratoconus is an eye condition where the clear front part of your eye (the cornea) gets thin and changes shape, which can cause blurry vision.
    • Doctors classify keratoconus by how much the cornea is affected and how fast the condition progresses.
    • The cost depends on the treatment you choose and the clinic you visit.
    • Glasses and contact lenses might be more affordable, while surgeries could cost more.
    • Surgery costs can vary depending on the procedure and the healthcare provider.
    • Let’s talk about the different options and costs that could work for you.
    • C3R (corneal cross-linking) treatment costs depend on where you live and the medical provider.
    • It’s important to consider the doctor’s experience and the facility’s reputation.
    • This can slowC3R, or corneal cross-linking, helps strengthen the cornea with special eye drops and UV light.
    • down or stop the progression of keratoconus.
    • A keratoconus specialist is an eye doctor who has expertise in diagnosing and treating keratoconus.
    • Typically, they are ophthalmologists with special training in corneal conditions and diseases.
    • These specialists often have a fellowship in cornea and external eye diseases from a reputable institute.
    • They can provide tailored treatment plans for keratoconus, ranging from non-surgical options to advanced surgical interventions.
    • Their knowledge helps guide you through all stages of managing keratoconus and keeping your vision as clear as possible.
    • The cost depends on the treatment you need and where you go for care.
    • Glasses and contact lenses might be more affordable, while surgeries could cost more.
    • Keratoconus doesn’t usually lead to blindness.
    • But, in severe cases, it can cause vision problems.
    • Early treatment helps keep your vision stable.
    • Keratoconus can cause serious vision problems, but blindness is rare.
    • We can work together to find the right treatment plan for you.
    • With proper care, blindness can be avoided.
    • Early diagnosis and ongoing care can help you keep your vision.

Keratoconus can’t be completely cured, but we have effective treatments.

    • Options like corneal cross-linking and special contact lenses can slow progression and improve vision.
    • Keratoconus can be serious if it’s not treated, as it may get worse over time.
    • Early diagnosis and management can help stabilize your condition.
    • If keratoconus affects your vision a lot, you may qualify for low vision accommodations for UPSC exams.
    • Check with your eye doctor and the exam board for more details
    • Allergic conjunctivitis can cause eye rubbing, which may make keratoconus worse.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing is very important for managing keratoconus.
      • Symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, light sensitivity, ghosting or double vision, and mild eye irritation.
      • These symptoms can vary depending on how serious your condition is
    • Special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and scleral lenses, provide better vision correction.
    • Scleral lenses cover the cornea and smooth out its surface.
    • Non-surgical treatments include prescription glasses and specialty contact lenses.
    • These options can help manage vision problems in the early stages of keratoconus.
    • Keratoconus can cause blurry or distorted vision due to changes in the cornea’s shape.
    • Vision problems can make everyday tasks like driving, reading, or using a computer more challenging.
  1. hat are the signs of keratoconus?
    • Signs include sudden changes in vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eye irritation.
    • Ghosting (seeing double) or streaking lights might also be noticeable.
    • Corneal topography maps the shape and curvature of the cornea.
    • This helps us understand the extent of irregularities and guide treatment decisions.
    • Eye drops alone can’t cure keratoconus, but they can be used in treatments like corneal cross-linking.
    • Riboflavin eye drops are used with UV light to strengthen the cornea and slow keratoconus progression.
    • Scleral lenses rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea.
    • They provide great vision correction and comfort by creating a smooth surface over your cornea.
    • Doctors classify keratoconus by how much the cornea is affected and how fast the condition progresses.
    • C3R (corneal cross-linking) treatment costs depend on where you live and the medical provider.
    • It’s important to consider the doctor’s experience and the facility’s reputation.
    • A keratoconus specialist is an eye doctor who has expertise in diagnosing and treating keratoconus.
    • Typically, they are ophthalmologists with special training in corneal conditions and diseases.
    • These specialists often have a fellowship in cornea and external eye diseases from a reputable institute.
    • They can provide tailored treatment plans for keratoconus, ranging from non-surgical options to advanced surgical interventions.
    • Their knowledge helps guide you through all stages of managing keratoconus and keeping your vision as clear as possible.
    • Keratoconus can be serious if it’s not treated, as it may get worse over time.
    • Early diagnosis and management can help stabilize your condition.
    • If keratoconus affects your vision a lot, you may qualify for low vision accommodations for UPSC exams.
    • Check with your eye doctor and the exam board for more details.
    • Allergic conjunctivitis can cause eye rubbing, which may make keratoconus worse.
    • Avoiding eye rubbing is very important for managing keratoconus.
    • Symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, light sensitivity, ghosting or double vision, and mild eye irritation.
    • These symptoms can vary depending on how serious your condition is.
    • Special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and scleral lenses, provide better vision correction.
    • Scleral lenses cover the cornea and smooth out its surface.
    • Non-surgical treatments include prescription glasses and specialty contact lenses.
    • These options can help manage vision problems in the early stages of keratoconus.
    • Keratoconus can cause blurry or distorted vision due to changes in the cornea’s shape.
        • Vision problems can make everyday tasks like driving, reading, or using a computer more challenging.
    • Signs include sudden changes in vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eye irritation.
    • Ghosting (seeing double) or streaking lights might also be noticeable.
    • Corneal topography maps the shape and curvature of the cornea.
    • This helps us understand the extent of irregularities and guide treatment decisions.
    • Eye drops alone can’t cure keratoconus, but they can be used in treatments like corneal cross-linking.
    • Riboflavin eye drops are used with UV light to strengthen the cornea and slow keratoconus progression.
    • Scleral lenses rest on the white part of your eye (sclera) and vault over the cornea.

They provide great vision correction and comfort by creating a smooth surface over your cornea.Keratoconus can be a challenging condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life. Early detection and appropriate care can stabilize the cornea and improve your vision. Stay proactive in your eye care and seek guidance from an eye care professional for personalized support.                                                                                                                                          

If you or someone you know is facing keratoconus, I understand it can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with the right care and support, you can manage this condition and improve your quality of life. Let me tell you why you might want to consider choosing Shanthi Nethralaya Eye Hospital and myself, Dr. Shanthi Niketh, for your keratoconus treatment.                                  

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+91-8074661750
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