At Mahaveer Eye Hospital, we understand the importance of maintaining...
Read MoreKeratoconus is a relatively rare eye condition that affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people worldwide, including a significant number in India.
Keratoconus is a relatively rare eye condition that affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people worldwide, including a significant number in India.
It typically manifests during teenage years and progresses gradually, causing thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to visual distortions. Keratoconus is characterized by the progressive thinning and cone-like bulging of the cornea, altering its normal shape. This structural change distorts vision by causing astigmatism and irregularities that cannot be corrected by glasses alone.
Causes and Symptoms of Keratoconus
Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), and frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses. Advanced stages may involve corneal scarring and impaired night vision.
Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), and frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses. Advanced stages may involve corneal scarring and impaired night vision.
What Keratoconus Vision Looks Like
Disorted Vision
Blurred Vision
Sensitivity to Light
Astigmatism
Understanding the Triggers
- Family history of keratoconus can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Frequent and vigorous eye rubbing is associated with the progression of keratoconus.
- Conditions such as Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and other connective tissue disorders can contribute to the development of keratoconus.
- Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and chronic eye irritation may play a role in triggering keratoconus.
- Chronic eye inflammation due to allergies or irritants can weaken the corneal structure, leading to keratoconus.
Causes of Keratoconus
Causes of Keratoconus
Role of
Genetics
About 1 in 10 people with keratoconus have a family member with the condition, indicating genetic component.
Eye
Rubbing
Excessive and aggressive eye rubbing is a major risk factor that can contribute to the progression of keratoconus.
Underlying
Disorders
Keratoconus is sometimes associated with certain conditions like Down syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Oxidative
Stress
increased oxidative stress and inflammation may contribute to the thinning and irregular shape of the cornea in keratoconus.
Research suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental factors contribute to the development of Keratoconus.
Research suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental factors contribute to the development of Keratoconus.
Mahaveer Eye Hospital offers comprehensive care for Keratoconus, combining state-of-the-art technology with the expertise of renowned ophthalmologists. We are committed to delivering personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes and enhanced visual clarity.
Diagnosis of Keratoconus
Diagnosis involves specialized tests such as corneal topography to map the corneal curvature, slit-lamp examination to assess corneal thinning, and refraction to measure visual acuity. These tests help in confirming Keratoconus and monitoring its progression.
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Slit-lamp Examination
A slit-lamp examination allows the us to examine the cornea under high magnification.
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Keratometry
Keratometry measures the curvature of the front surface of the cornea. In keratoconus, the cornea has an irregular, asymmetric curvature that can be detected by keratometry.
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Corneal Topography
Corneal topography provides a detailed map of the corneal surface, allowing detection of the irregular astigmatism and steepening characteristic of keratoconus.
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Corneal Pachymetry
Pachymetry measures the thickness of the cornea. In keratoconus, the cornea thins out, especially in the central and paracentral regions.
Choosing the Right Lens for You
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are a type of gas-permeable contact lens that rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, and vault over the cornea without touching it.
Rose K Lenses
Rose K lenses are specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses for keratoconus. ose K lenses can correct high degrees of astigmatism and other irregularities.
Advanced Treatment Options Offered at
Mahaveer Eye Hospital
Advanced Treatment Options Offered at
Mahaveer Eye Hospital
Mahaveer Eye Hospital is at the forefront of providing advanced treatments for Keratoconus, leveraging cutting-edge technology and expert medical care to manage and improve the condition effectively. Our approach combines advanced diagnostic techniques with innovative therapies to preserve vision and improve quality of life for patients.
FAQs
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What are the early signs of keratoconus?
Early signs of keratoconus include blurred or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light and glare, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, and difficulty seeing at night. Regular eye exams can help detect these changes early.
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Can keratoconus be cured?
While there is no cure for keratoconus, treatments can help manage the condition and improve vision. These treatments include glasses, contact lenses, corneal cross-linking, and in advanced cases, corneal transplant surgery.
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How can I prevent keratoconus from worsening?
To prevent keratoconus from worsening, avoid rubbing your eyes, protect your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses, and attend regular eye check-ups to monitor the condition. Early detection and treatment are key to managing keratoconus effectively.