Keratoconus

Overview

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition characterized by the thinning and bulging of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front of the eye. This condition causes blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and glare. Keratoconus usually affects both eyes, but it can affect one eye more than the other.

Types of Keratoconus

There are several types of keratoconus, including:

1) Primary keratoconus: The most common type of keratoconus, which is caused by unknown factors.

2) Secondary keratoconus: Caused by other conditions such as eye injury, contact lens wear, or certain eye diseases.

3) Teritary keratoconus: Caused by systemic diseases such as Down syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Causes of Keratoconus

The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development. These include:

• Genetic factors: Family history may play a role in developing keratoconus.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or allergens may increase the risk of developing keratoconus.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty or menopause may trigger keratoconus.
• Eye rubbing: Frequent eye rubbing can cause the cornea to thin and bulge.

Risk Factors of Keratoconus

Certain individuals may be at higher risk of developing keratoconus due to various factors. These include:

• Family history: Having a family member with keratoconus increases the risk of developing the condition.
• Ethnicity: People of certain ethnicities, such as African Americans and Hispanics, are more likely to develop keratoconus.
• Age: Keratoconus typically affects people between the late teens and 30 years of age.
• Contact lens wear: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can increase the risk of developing keratoconus.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Preventions of Keratoconus

While there is no definitive way to prevent keratoconus, taking proper care of your eyes and avoiding potential risks may help reduce the risk of developing the condition. Some prevention measures include:

• Avoiding eye rubbing.
• Wearing contact lenses correctly.
• Getting regular eye exams.
• Maintaining good eye hygiene.
• Avoiding exposure to environmental factors that can cause eye irritation.

Diagnosis of Keratoconus

Diagnosis of keratoconus is typically made through a combination of physical examination and medical history. The following tests may be performed to evaluate the condition:

• Slit-lamp biomicroscopy to examine the cornea.
• Ophthalmoscopy to examine the inner eye.
• Corneal topography to measure corneal shape and thickness.
• Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness.

Treatment for Keratoconus

Treatment for keratoconus typically involves a combination of medication and non-surgical interventions. The following treatments may be used to manage keratoconus:

• Glasses or contact lenses to correct vision.
• Corneal inserts or piggyback lenses to improve vision.
• Corneal cross-linking to strengthen the cornea.
• Intacs or other types of corneal implants to improve vision.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you are experiencing any symptoms of keratoconus, it is essential to see a doctor promptly. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications and permanent damage.