Keratoconus and How We Treat It

Keratoconus example

Keratoconus example

Keratoconus, a degenerative disease of the eye, is a non-inflammatory thinning and bulging of the cornea causing substantial vision distortion. Typically both eyes are affected but to varying degrees. It is usually diagnosed during the teenage years with progression continuing into the twenties and thirties. The exact cause of this disease is unknown but genetics, environmental and cellular factors may be some explanations.

Keratoconus Simulation

Normal Vision Keratoconus Initial Stages

Keratoconus Later Stages

*Actual visual symptoms may differ.

Symptoms Can Include:

  • Impaired vision at all distances
  • Multiple “ghost” images / double vision
  • Poor night vision
  • Sensitivity to bright light
  • Little to no pain

How We Treat Keratoconus

I have extensive experience in treating this disease with contact lens therapy. As each individual patient is unique and requires different treatment, I take the time to thoroughly access the patient and prescribe a specialty lens protocal. Specialty contact lenses can create the effect of a smoother cornea allowing images to come to a single focus. Hybrid lens technology combines the comfort of a soft lens with the visual improvements of RGP (rigid gas-permeable) lenses. Scleral lenses encompass a larger surface area on the eye and provide more stability. In a small range of patients with keratoconus where specialty lens treatment is not effective, I may recommend corneal transplant surgery.

For more information visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology here or the visit the American Optometric Association here.