What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the normally round cornea (the clear front part of the eye) gradually thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, causing distorted and blurred vision. At Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center, our specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing keratoconus with the latest treatment approaches.
Keratoconus typically affects both eyes, though one eye is usually more severely affected than the other. The condition often begins during the teenage years or early twenties and may progress for 10-20 years before stabilizing. Early detection and proper management are crucial for preserving vision and preventing the need for corneal transplantation.
Signs and Symptoms of Keratoconus
Keratoconus symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
- Blurred or distorted vision that cannot be fully corrected with glasses
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Frequent prescription changes in glasses or contact lenses
- Difficulty seeing at night or in low light conditions
- Eye strain and fatigue
- Halos around lights
- Double vision in one eye (monocular diplopia)
- Sudden worsening or clouding of vision (may indicate corneal scarring)
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, several factors may contribute to its development:
- Genetics: Family history of keratoconus increases risk
- Eye rubbing: Chronic, vigorous eye rubbing may contribute to progression
- Allergies: Conditions causing frequent eye rubbing
- Connective tissue disorders: Such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome
- Other eye conditions: Retinitis pigmentosa, vernal keratoconjunctivitis
- Down syndrome: Higher incidence in individuals with Down syndrome
Advanced Diagnostic Technology
Accurate diagnosis and monitoring of keratoconus require specialized equipment. We use state-of-the-art technology including:
- Corneal Topography: Creates detailed maps of the corneal surface to detect irregular astigmatism
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Measures corneal thickness and monitors changes over time
- Pentacam Imaging: Provides 3D analysis of the anterior eye segment
- Keratometry: Measures the curvature of the cornea
- Pachymetry: Accurately measures corneal thickness
- Wavefront Analysis: Detects higher-order aberrations caused by irregular corneal shape
Comprehensive Treatment Options
Treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity and progression of the condition. Our comprehensive approach includes:
Early Stage Treatment
- Eyeglasses: May provide adequate vision correction in very early stages
- Soft Toric Contact Lenses: Can help with mild irregular astigmatism
- Hybrid Contact Lenses: Combine the comfort of soft lenses with the vision quality of rigid lenses
Moderate to Advanced Treatment
- Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Create a new refractive surface over the irregular cornea
- Scleral Contact Lenses: Large diameter lenses that vault over the cornea, providing excellent vision and comfort
- Piggyback Lens Systems: Soft lens worn under an RGP lens for increased comfort
- Corneal Cross-linking (CXL): FDA-approved procedure to strengthen corneal tissue and halt progression
Advanced Surgical Options
For severe cases where other treatments are not effective:
- Intracorneal Ring Segments (Intacs): Thin plastic rings inserted into the cornea to improve its shape
- Corneal Transplantation: Partial or full thickness corneal replacement (referral to corneal specialist)
Specialty Contact Lens Fitting
Our team has extensive experience fitting specialty contact lenses for keratoconus patients:
- Custom Design: Each lens is individually designed based on your corneal topography
- Multiple Fitting Sessions: We take the time needed to achieve optimal fit and vision
- Ongoing Support: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor lens performance and eye health
- Lens Care Education: Comprehensive training on proper lens care and handling
- Emergency Services: Replacement lenses and urgent care when needed
Managing Keratoconus Progression
Preventing progression is a key aspect of keratoconus management:
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: Critical to prevent further corneal weakening
- Allergy Management: Controlling allergies reduces the urge to rub eyes
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent check-ups to detect any progression early
- UV Protection: Wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes
- Corneal Cross-linking: When appropriate to halt progression
Living with Keratoconus
With proper management, most people with keratoconus can maintain good functional vision:
- Many patients achieve 20/20 or better vision with specialty contact lenses
- Regular eye exams are essential for monitoring changes
- Most daily activities can be performed normally with proper correction
- Night driving may require special precautions or restrictions
- Support groups and resources are available for patients and families
Why Choose Arizona's Vision for Keratoconus Care?
- Extensive experience in keratoconus management
- State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
- Comprehensive range of treatment options
- Expert specialty contact lens fitting
- Personalized care plans for each patient
- Strong relationships with corneal specialists for advanced cases
- Ongoing support and follow-up care