Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you frequently change your eyeglass prescription, experience fuzzy vision, or have trouble seeing at night? If so, you might have keratoconus. Globally, one in every 500 or 2,000 people has this condition. If neglected, it can lead to severe vision issues. 

Causes of Keratoconus

It is unclear what exactly causes keratoconus. However, several things may influence its development.
 

• Genetics

According to research, those with this eye condition in their family are more likely to experience the disorder. This implies a hereditary component. Researchers are yet to characterize the specific genes implicated fully.
 

• Eye Rubbing

Cornea injury can result from eye rubbing. It might make it weaker and more prone to forming a cone shape over time. This is particularly true if you rub your eyes frequently or aggressively.
 

• Allergies

Allergies can result in eye irritation; over time, they can make the cornea shrink and weaken. Consequently, individuals with severe or persistent allergies may be more likely to develop keratoconus.
 

• UV Exposure

Studies also connect keratoconus to persistent exposure to UV radiation. The cornea may eventually become damaged by UV light, increasing the likelihood of having the disorder. It’s one more reason to wear sunglasses or other types of protective eyewear when outside.

Other Factors

Other leading risk factors for keratoconus include genetics, eye rubbing, allergies, and UV exposure. But additional elements could also have an impact on its growth. According to research, hormone abnormalities, certain drugs, and persistent eye irritation may increase keratoconus risk. 

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Although keratoconus symptoms might differ from person to person, some of the more typical ones are as follows:
 

• Vision distortion and blurring: The cornea thins and takes on the shape of a cone

• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription: You may need to change your prescription periodically to preserve clear vision as the cornea's shape changes

• Light sensitivity: Keratoconus can cause increased sensitivity to light. This can make it difficult to see in bright sunlight or indoor lighting

• Glare and halos: You may see halos or glare around lights, especially at night

• Eyestrain and fatigue: Your eyes may feel tired or strained, especially after reading or using a computer for extended periods

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

Although keratoconus is incurable, several treatments can help reduce its symptoms and enhance vision. These include the following:
 

• Corrective Lenses

Contact lenses or glasses can help treat mild cases of keratoconus. As the condition progresses, special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable lenses, may be necessary to correct vision.
 

• Corneal Cross-linking

Applying riboflavin eye drops to the cornea before exposing it to UV radiation is a minimally invasive treatment. This strengthens the cornea and can slow or halt the progression of keratoconus.
 

• Intacs®

These are small, curved plastic inserts placed in the cornea to reshape it and improve vision. For those with mild to severe keratoconus, Intacs® may be a good alternative.
 

• Corneal Transplant

In extreme cases, eye doctors may recommend a corneal transplant to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy one.

Conclusion

Keratoconus can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. However, treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and improve vision. Most people with keratoconus can maintain good eyesight and quality of life with the proper care and therapy.

For more on keratoconus, visit Advanced Eyecare Consultants at our Lake Zurich or Libertyville, Illinois office. Call 847-438-7700 or 847-994-4500 to schedule an appointment today.