Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, causing blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. If left untreated, it can severely impact daily life. Fortunately, modern treatments can slow its progression and restore clear vision. This article explores keratoconus in detail, covering causes, symptoms, and the best treatment options available, including keratoconus surgery at a leading eye hospital in Maharashtra.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus occurs when the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, weakens and gradually thins, leading to an irregular shape. This distortion causes light entering the eye to scatter, resulting in blurred and distorted vision. The condition usually starts in the teenage years and progresses slowly over a decade or more.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause is unknown, several factors contribute to keratoconus:
Genetics: A family history increases risk.
Eye Rubbing: Excessive rubbing can worsen the condition.
Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may be linked.
Environmental Factors: Allergies and chronic eye irritation may play a role.
Symptoms of Keratoconus
Early signs include:
Blurred or distorted vision
Increased light sensitivity
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
Poor night vision with halos around lights
Eye strain and headaches
If you experience these symptoms, consult an eye specialist immediately. Early diagnosis improves treatment success.
Diagnosis of Keratoconus
An eye doctor performs several tests:
Corneal Topography: Maps the cornea’s curvature.
Slit-Lamp Examination: Checks for thinning and scarring.
Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.
Early detection helps prevent severe vision loss.
Keratoconus Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the condition’s severity. Options include:
1. Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses (Early Stage)
Glasses: Correct mild astigmatism.
Soft Contacts: Improve comfort but may not fully correct vision.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Provide better clarity by creating a smooth refractive surface.
Hybrid Lenses: Combine soft and rigid lenses for comfort and sharp vision.
2. Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Procedure: Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) eye drops are applied, followed by UV light to strengthen corneal collagen fibers.
Effectiveness: Stops progression in 90% of cases.
Recovery: Takes a few days with mild discomfort.
3. Intacs (Corneal Implants)
What They Are: Small plastic rings inserted into the cornea to flatten its shape.
Best For: Patients who cannot tolerate contact lenses.
Recovery: Quick, with improved vision within weeks.
4. Keratoconus Surgery (Advanced Cases)
When other treatments fail, surgery may be necessary:
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP): Full-thickness corneal transplant.
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Replaces only the outer layers, reducing rejection risks.
Topography-Guided PRK: Laser treatment to reshape the cornea (less common).
For severe cases, consulting a specialist at a reputable eye hospital in Maharashtra ensures the best care.
Post-Treatment Care
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
Attend follow-up visits to monitor progress.
Conclusion
Keratoconus is manageable with early intervention. From glasses to advanced keratoconus surgery, multiple treatments can restore clear vision. If you suspect keratoconus, seek expert care promptly. A trusted eye hospital in Maharashtra can provide personalized solutions for better eye health.
By understanding symptoms and treatment options, patients can take proactive steps to protect their vision and maintain a high quality of life.
