Keratoconus affects one in 2,000 individuals and symptoms usually begin during puberty. This eye condition compromises the structure of the cornea, which can result in vision loss. While eyeglasses and contact lenses can correct the issue in its early stages, patients may need a procedure called corneal crosslinking to restore sight as the condition progresses.
Read on to learn all about this condition.
The cornea is the clear outer surface of the eye. Its thickest part is its middle layer, which mostly consists of water and collagen. Collagen keeps the cornea flexible and strong and helps it stay round in shape. A healthy cornea can focus light properly, allowing you to see clearly. However, in a person with keratoconus, the cornea thins and bulges into an irregular cone shape, causing vision loss.
It’s still unclear what causes keratoconus, but some experts believe that the predisposition to develop the disease is present at birth. Collagen loss in the cornea is common in patients with keratoconus. This can be caused by an imbalance between corneal cells’ production and the destruction of the corneal tissue.
You may need to see your eye doctor more often if you have a family history of keratoconus. This eye condition is often diagnosed during the teenage years. Younger individuals with advanced keratoconus will likely need surgery as it progresses. Constant inflammation and chronic eye rubbing can also contribute to the development of this condition.
Usually, a minor blurring of vision or hard-to-correct poor vision is the earliest indication of keratoconus. Patients may experience trouble seeing at night, increased light sensitivity and sudden worsening of the vision. They may also see glares and halos around lights and suffer from headaches associated with eye pain.
Regularly seeing your optometrist can help with the early detection and treatment of keratoconus. For your vision and eye care needs, Six One Six Vision Center is always here to help. Call us or text us at 208-514-1858 to set up an appointment. We serve patients in Eagle and Meridian, ID, and nearby communities.
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