What is Keratoconus?

Image: Keratoconus on Corneal Topography

Keratoconus is an eye disease that affects the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. The cornea is responsible for refracting light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. In keratoconus, the cornea gradually becomes thinner and bulges outward into a cone shape, distorting vision and causing a range of symptoms.

Keratoconus typically affects both eyes and can progress over time. The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetics and environmental factors, such as eye rubbing, allergies, and UV light exposure.

Symptoms of keratoconus can include blurred or distorted vision, and difficulty seeing at night. In the early stages of the disease, vision can often be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. However, as the disease progresses, specialised hard contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, may be needed. RGP and scleral lenses provide excellent vision to those with keratoconus.

There are some surgical options which may be considered, including corneal collagen cross-linking, which strengthens the cornea and slows the progression of the disease. In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be needed, which replaces the diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea.

Early detection and treatment of keratoconus is important to prevent vision loss and improve quality of life. Regular eye exams with your Optometrist are recommended, especially for individuals with a family history of keratoconus or those with eye allergies. A corneal scan, called Corneal Topography, is used to detect and manage Keratoconus and is recommended for those at risk.

Book your Keratoconus assessment online.

References:

- American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). What is Keratoconus? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-keratoconus

- National Eye Institute. (2021). Facts About Keratoconus. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/keratoconus

- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Keratoconus. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351352

- American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Keratoconus Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/keratoconus-treatment