Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Eye Conditions, Eye Health on October 30, 2018
Keratoconus is an eye issue where the structure of the cornea is so weak that it bulges outward, creating a cone shape. The cornea is known as the “windshield” of the eye and is normally formed in a dome shape. Read on to find out what causes Keratoconus and what you can do about it.
The cause of Keratoconus
The cornea is held in place with minuscule collagen fibers. If these fibers are weak, they fail to hold the dome like shape of the cornea and slowly develop into a cone shape. When protective antioxidants are in low supply, Keratoconus is the result. The cornea will naturally generate damaging by products that are eradicated by these antioxidants. Unfortunately, if the levels of antioxidants are extremely low, the collagen fibers will become weak and bulge outward.
Keratoconus can be genetic. If you or your parents have Keratoconus, be sure to schedule an eye exam for your children so they can get their eyes checked. Children should begin having regular eye checkups at around the age of 10. If you have certain medical conditions or specific allergies, Keratoconus can spread faster. Some studies suggest that the condition is connected to consistent eye rubbing.
Keratoconus symptoms
Keratoconus is characterized by specific symptoms including: streaking lights, seeing double or triple ghost images, feeling unsafe driving due to blurred vision, a change in vision in one eye, seeing double in one eye, or objects or people appearing distorted.
What you can do to treat Keratoconus
After you have been appropriately diagnosed with Keratoconus after a thorough eye exam, you may require eyeglasses. Eyeglasses are the most basic method for treating the condition and often help many patients deal with the side effects. If glasses fail to give you better vision, then rigid gas permeable contact lenses may be helpful.
For some, cornea collagen crosslinking can help prevent worsening Keratoconus symptoms. Implants called Intacs are carefully placed below the corneal surface to inhibit improper shape development. For other patients, a PTK can create a smooth surface by removing the callus on the cornea. This is a special laser procedure that can make wearing contacts more comfortable.
Arrange a consultation
If you think you suffer from Keratoconus, call Aker Kasten Eye Center today by calling (561) 338-7722. We look forward to helping you!