What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the transparent, dome-shaped surface of the eye starts thinning and bulging out into a cone shape. Distortion of light entering the eye causes either blurry or distorted vision. The resultant abnormality of the corneal shape prevents it from bringing the light into a focus on the retina, thus impairing vision, which may potentially worsen with time if left untreated.In the beginning stages, keratoconus can often mimic the effects of ordinary astigmatism, as it can cause blurry vision. Nevertheless, a light progression in keratoconus often results in severe loss of vision. The condition usually begins during the teenage years or early adulthood and can affect one eye or both, though the severity is not the same between both eyes.

Causes of Keratoconus

The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but it appears that a number of factors contribute to its development. Some of the most likely causes and risk factors include:

Genetics: A family history of keratoconus predisposes an individual to developing the condition. Research has shown that there may be a hereditary element, or at least some genetic mutation which is associated with the disease.

Frequent and forceful rubbing of the eyes at the end is very often connected to a history of keratoconus. This becomes very frequent, especially in those patients with the allergies or other similar conditions that provoke itchy eyes.

Underlying medical conditions: Among them include Down syndrome, asthma, eczema, and connective tissue disorders that have been linked to the progression of keratoconus.

Environmental Factor: The theory surmises that oxidative stress, which is the outcome of cell damage caused by harmful free radicals within the corneal tissue, might weaken and thin the cornea further, causing keratoconus.

Treatment of Keratoconus

While keratoconus has no cure, its progression can be managed through various treatments depending on the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for maintaining quality vision and preventing further deterioration. Here are some of the primary treatment options:

Eyeglasses and Soft Contact Lenses: Glasses or soft contact lenses may correct minor vision problems when the cornea is irregularly shaped. These alternatives may be adequate for satisfactory correction of vision in patients with minor distortion of the cornea.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses In advanced keratoconus, the cornea is greatly distorted, and soft lenses lose their effectiveness. RGP lenses are the best answer for a moderately progressed condition: they can be draped smoothly over the distorted cornea, providing great visual acuity.

Hybrid Contact Lenses Hybrid lenses combine the soft aspect of vision correction with the crystal-clear visualization offered by rigid contact lenses. Hybrid is best suited for keratoconus patients, who are not only looking for comfort but also crystal-clear vision. Scleral Lenses: Scleral lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This type of lens offers excellent comfort and a clear view for patients with advanced keratoconus because it serves to shield the cornea and generate a more stable, clearer surface on which light is focused.

 Corneal Cross-Linking: It is the latest non-invasive procedure aiming to stop or halt the progression of keratoconus by increasing the firmness of the corneal tissue. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops are applied to the cornea, and then exposed to UV light. In this way, it stiffens the cornea and further bulging of it would be avoided. A corneal transplant is even possible in extreme cases where the lines of treatments described above would not help-even a transplant of the healthy donor cornea in place of a damaged one. The surgery of a corneal transplant is taken into action when all else fails to correct vision because the surgical method has a high success rate.

 Understanding keratoconus and seeking treatment early is essential for maintaining good vision and preventing severe complications. Whether through specialized lenses or advanced procedures, those affected by keratoconus can lead a fulfilling life with the right care.