Keratoconus
Early detection is key to slowing corneal degeneration and decreasing the likelihood of requiring a corneal transplant
This is how a keratoconus patient looks
Drag the central bar to compare before and after
Before
After
- Keratoconus is a condition that occurs when the cornea, the clear, outer layer of the eye that helps focus properly, becomes thinner and more conical
- Among the factors that influence in the development of keratoconus are:
– Genetic predisposition
– Excessive eye rubbing
– Initial symptoms appear between the teenage years and the thirties, and get progressively worse
Symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Visual distortion where straight lines appear slightly wavy or curved
- Increased light sensitivity
- Redness or swelling of the eye
- Frequent need to update lens prescriptions
- Discomfort if contact lenses are worn
Treatment
- Initial symptoms can be corrected with prescription lenses. In more advanced stages, intracorneal rings may be placed or a procedure with UV light and drops may be performed to stop the deformation of the cornea. If there is no adequate treatment, corneal transplantation may be necessary.