According to the American Optometric Association, one in every 2,000 people has keratoconus. It ranks among the most prevalent causes of corneal transplantation in the United States. It is possible to treat the early stages of the disease with glasses. Corneal transplantation may be necessary to restore sight as it progresses into late childhood and early adulthood.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus, or KC, is a progressive eye disease in which the usually round, dome-shaped cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape. This change results in distorted vision, necessitating special contact lenses or glasses to correct vision.

The cornea's middle layer is the thickest and primarily consists of collagen and water. The collagen stretches and strengthens the cornea, allowing it to retain its round, regular shape. A healthy cornea focuses light onto the retina, allowing you to see clearly. The cornea thins and takes on a cone shape with KC, leading to vision loss. 

This condition typically develops during adolescence and continues progressing into the mid-30s. There is no way to predict how rapidly or if at all it will progress. The disease usually affects both eyes, with one affected more severely than the other.

Possible Causes

Researchers are yet to determine the definitive cause of keratoconus. Many believe it stems from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. According to some research, a weakness in the structural proteins of the cornea causes KC, leading to thinning and distortion of the cornea over time. Other factors that may contribute to its development include the following:
 

• The condition tends to run in families, implying a genetic component.

• Some research suggests that exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun may contribute to its development.

• People who rub their eyes may be more likely to develop the condition.

• Researchers link certain medications, including steroids, to an increased risk of keratoconus.

• Asthma and eczema may have a link to an increased risk of keratoconus.

It is essential to understand that most people with these risk factors do not develop this eye condition. Also, not everyone with keratoconus has any known risk factors.

What are the Symptoms?

Keratoconus symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, many people with this condition are unaware they have an eye problem. The earliest sign is progressively poor eyesight or a slight blurring of vision that is difficult to correct. Other symptoms include the following:
 

• Blurred vision

• Light sensitivity

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions

• Seeing halos or rings around lights

• Headaches or eye irritation associated with eye pain

Diagnosis

Eye doctors typically diagnose this eye condition during a comprehensive eye exam. Besides vision testing, eye doctors may perform other tests to evaluate the shape and health of the cornea. These include a slit lamp examination, corneal mapping, corneal thickness measurement, refraction test, and visual acuity test. The results allow the eye doctor to determine the presence and severity of keratoconus and recommend the best treatment.

If you are experiencing symptoms of KC, it is best to visit an eye care professional to evaluate and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

For more on keratoconus, visit Grand Eye Care at our River Grove, Illinois office. Call (708) 816-2020 to schedule an appointment today.