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.

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Causes and Risk Factors

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

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Blurred Vision

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Sensitivity to Light

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Double Vision

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Eye Irritation

Diagnosis of Keratoconus

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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.

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Slit-Lamp Examination

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

Pachymetry

Measures the thickness of your cornea to check for thinning.

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Corneal Topography

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

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

Non-Surgical Treatments

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Prescription Glasses

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

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Contact Lenses

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

Surgical Treatments

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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.

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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.

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Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS)

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

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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.

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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

Regular Eye Check-up

Eye Protection

Support Groups

Why We Choose Shanthi Nethralaya Eye Hospital

Cutting-Edge Technology

Our hospital is equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical technology, ensuring you receive precise and effective care. Corneal topography and other advanced imaging techniques provide accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.

Postoperative Support

After your treatment, our staff will provide comprehensive postoperative care and follow-up appointments to help you recover effectively and achieve the best possible outcome.

Dr. Shanthi Niketh, Hyderabad's best eye surgeon, performing critical cataract surgery

My Expertise and Approach

  • Compassionate Care: When you come to me for your care, know that I’m here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain your treatment options. My goal is to empower you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your eye health.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: I believe that every patient is unique, and I tailor each treatment plan to your specific condition and needs, whether it’s specialty contact lenses or advanced surgical options.

Support and Resources

Whether it’s connecting you with keratoconus support groups or providing additional information about your condition, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Success Stories

Patients who have received treatment from me at Shanthi Nethralaya have experienced significant improvements in their vision and quality of life. The hospital’s reputation speaks for itself!

  • 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.
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  • 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.
  • 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.

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