Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape can cause significant vision problems, including blurred and distorted vision, sensitivity to glare and light, and difficulty driving at night.

What Causes Keratoconus?

The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the potential causes of keratoconus include:
 

• Genetic factors: Keratoconus can sometimes run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
• Excessive eye rubbing: Vigorous and frequent eye rubbing can contribute to the progression of keratoconus.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty and pregnancy, may play a role in the development and progression of keratoconus.
• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, Down syndrome, and connective tissue disorders, have been associated with an increased risk of developing keratoconus.

Understanding the underlying causes of keratoconus is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and managing the condition effectively.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus often begins in the teenage years or early 20s, and the symptoms can gradually worsen over time. The most common symptoms of keratoconus include:
 

• Blurred or distorted vision: As the cornea becomes more irregularly shaped, it can cause images to appear blurred, distorted, or multiple.
• Increased sensitivity to glare and light: The irregular cornea can cause increased sensitivity to bright lights, sunlight, and nighttime glare from headlights or streetlights.
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions: As the cornea continues to change shape, your prescription may need to be updated more frequently.
• Eye strain and fatigue: The visual distortions and sensitivity to light can lead to eye strain, headaches, and general fatigue.

It's important to recognize these symptoms and seek medical attention from an eye care professional, as early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of keratoconus and preserve your vision.

Diagnosing Keratoconus

To diagnose keratoconus, your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye examination, which may include the following tests:
 

• Visual acuity test: This test measures your ability to see clearly at different distances.
• Slit-lamp examination: A slit-lamp examination allows your eye care professional to closely examine the structure and shape of your cornea.
• Corneal topography: This imaging test maps the surface of your cornea, providing detailed information about its shape and curvature.
• Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of your cornea, which can help diagnose and monitor the progression of keratoconus.
• Aberrometry: This advanced imaging test measures the unique optical aberrations in your eye, which can help identify the irregular corneal shape associated with keratoconus.

Based on the results of these tests, your eye care professional will be able to confirm the diagnosis of keratoconus and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

In the early stages of keratoconus, conservative treatment options may be sufficient to manage the condition and improve your vision. These options include:
 

• Eyeglasses: In the early stages of keratoconus, standard eyeglasses may be able to correct the mild distortions in your vision.
• Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses: RGP contact lenses can help to regularize the shape of the cornea, improving visual acuity and comfort.
• Soft toric contact lenses: Soft toric contact lenses can also be used to correct the irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus.
• Scleral contact lenses: These large, gas-permeable lenses rest on the white part of the eye (sclera) and can provide clear, comfortable vision for individuals with advanced keratoconus.
• Corneal inserts: In some cases, small, implantable corneal inserts may be used to help reshape the cornea and improve visual acuity.

Your eye doctor will work with you to determine the most appropriate conservative treatment option based on the stage and severity of your keratoconus.

Navigating Keratoconus with the Help of Alamo Eye Care

Keratoconus can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right treatment and support, many individuals with keratoconus are able to maintain good vision and live active, fulfilling lives.

For more information on keratoconus or for further guidance on treatment options, visit Alamo Eye Care at our office in San Antonio or Austin, Texas. Please call (210) 403-9050 to schedule an appointment today.