Did you know that keratoconus affects approximately 1 in every 2,000 individuals worldwide? This progressive eye disorder gradually thins and reshapes the cornea into a cone-like configuration, leading to distorted vision and potentially affecting daily activities such as reading, driving, or watching television.
At Everett & Hurite Eyecare Specialists, located in Pittsburgh, PA, we specialize in providing the highest quality, comprehensive eye care tailored to each patient's needs. Our team of highly qualified physicians is dedicated to using the latest technology and treatment options to manage keratoconus and enhance your vision. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of keratoconus, schedule an appointment today!
Understanding this condition and knowing what steps to take next can significantly impact your quality of life.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a complex eye disorder that affects the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye responsible for focusing light onto the retina. In a healthy eye, the cornea has a dome-like shape; however, in individuals with keratoconus, it becomes thinner and bulges outward, forming a cone-like protrusion.
This irregular shape affects how light enters and is focused by the eye, causing distorted vision. The exact cause of keratoconus is still unknown, but researchers believe it may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Symptoms That You Shouldn't Ignore
Keratoconus typically begins during the teenage years and progresses slowly over the next decade or two. The initial symptoms may be mild, such as blurred or distorted vision, and can often be mistaken for nearsightedness or astigmatism. As the condition advances, the following symptoms may develop:
- Difficulty seeing at night (night blindness)
- Sensitivity to bright lights and glare
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Eye strain, headaches, and eye irritation
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with an eye care specialist for a comprehensive eye exam to determine if keratoconus is the cause.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of keratoconus is still unknown. However, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some potential risk factors include:
- Genetics: If someone in your family has keratoconus, you have an increased chance of developing the condition.
- Eye Rubbing: Excessive eye rubbing can weaken the cornea's structural integrity and increase the risk of developing keratoconus.
- Allergies: Chronic allergies such as eczema or hay fever may contribute to the development of keratoconus.
- Chronic Eye Irritation: Conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or contact lens intolerance can irritate the eyes and potentially contribute to keratoconus.
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
While there is no cure for keratoconus, several treatment options can help manage the condition and improve vision. Based on the severity of your symptoms, our eye care specialists at Everett & Hurite may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: In the early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may be sufficient to correct mild symptoms. If the cornea has significant irregularities, special rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses or other types of lenses, such as scleral lenses may be recommended for better vision.
- INTACS: For moderate to advanced keratoconus, your eye doctor may recommend INTACS. This procedure involves the placement of tiny plastic inserts into the cornea to reshape its curvature and improve vision.
- Corneal Cross-Linking: We offer Avedro technology, the most effective and safest treatment available for keratoconus and the only one approved by the FDA. This minimally invasive procedure involves applying special riboflavin eye drops and exposing the cornea to ultraviolet light to strengthen its fibers and prevent further thinning. The actual procedure takes about an hour, but keratoconus patients will be in the office for approximately two hours for preparation and recovery before heading home.
In severe keratoconus cases where other treatment options have failed, a corneal transplant may be necessary. During this procedure, a donor cornea is surgically implanted to replace the damaged one. However, advancements in corneal transplant techniques have made this option a last resort for treating keratoconus.
Living with Keratoconus
Living with keratoconus may require some adjustments, but it is possible to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life. Here are a few tips:
- Attend Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring the progression of keratoconus and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Also, avoid rubbing your eyes excessively, as it can cause further damage to the cornea.
- Be Patient With Treatment: The effectiveness of treatment for keratoconus may vary from person to person. Be patient and follow your doctor's recommendations closely for the best results.
Let Us Help You Improve Your Vision
Keratoconus is a complex eye condition that requires careful management to maintain optimal vision and quality of life. Our team at Everett & Hurite is here to support you with personalized eye care solutions.
Transform your vision journey today—schedule an appointment with us for expert keratoconus management With our advanced technology and dedicated care, we'll help you see life more clearly.
