Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory corneal thinning disorder that can result in symptoms of blurred and distorted vision. As the eye disease develops it continues to attack the cornea causing it to protrude and resemble a cone shape.
This cone shaping results in light not being able to enter directly into the eye, which is why distorted vision occurs.
Although Keratoconus does not lead to blindness, it does cause severely impacted vision that can result in simple tasks such as reading, writing and driving becoming extremely difficult for the individual.
Causes
Relevant scientific and medical research has allowed for some reasoning on what causes Keratoconus. Research suggests that the cause of Keratoconus can be linked to both environmental and genetic factors.
The AOA states that approximately 1 in 10 cases of Keratoconus are hereditary, relating to a close family member having the condition.
Keratoconus has also been scientifically linked to other genetic disorders such as Down's Syndrome, Ehlos Danlers Syndrome and Asthma.
Symptoms
There are a variety of symptoms that show up at the early stages of Keratoconus such as blurred and distorted vision. These symptoms can cause major problems in every day tasks such as reading, writing and driving.
If Keratoconus is left untreated it can lead to even more significant changes to vision that increasingly restricted vision that can have a huge impact on the individuals everyday life.
Treatment
Treatment of keratoconus is managed best by the use of speciality contact lenses such as RGP lenses or scleral lenses.
RGP lenses
RGP lenses (hard contact lenses) are a recommended treatment type for keratoconus that is no longer able to be corrected by prescription glasses. RGP lenses are suitable for treating conditions that are caused by keratoconus such as astigmatism and myopia.
Scleral lenses
Scleral lenses are suitable for keratoconus that is rapidly affecting the shape of the cornea, causing it to become more difficult for traditional contact lenses to treat.
Scleral lenses are designed to cover the whole cornea and on the scelera (white part of the eye), which with regular use is an extremely comfortable fit for those sufferers.
Our specialised contact lens team will work with you to find the most suitable contact lens for your keratoconus and lifestyle.
Prevention
At OCULA, we believe in prevention as a first line of defence. Eye diseases such as Keratoconus can go unnoticed, which is why it is so important to get a routine eye examination every 2 years, so that good health is maintained.
Through the use of advanced technology and a specialised team, early diagnosis of eye diseases available at OCULA. If you have a family history of keratoconus or other eye diseases, it is important you see an optometrist yearly to prevent the development.
FAQs
Can you go blind from keratoconus? It does not lead to blindness however can cause great visual distortion and blurring that can be problematic.
Can you wear glasses with keratoconus? Yes, for some people diagnosed with keratoconus they are still able to wear glasses and have fine vision, it is all dependent on each case.
Can I still drive with keratoconus? Yes, even if you have keratoconus you can still drive as long as your vision meets the standard driving requirements. With proper treatment, your vision will be corrected to a good level, whether it be with glasses or contact lenses.
Can keratoconus be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for keratoconus however a variety of treatment options that bring your vision back to a good level.
What is the most common age for diagnosis of keratoconus?
Can Keratoconus be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for Keratoconus however a variety of treatment options that bring your vision back to a good level.
If you think you might be suffering from keratoconus, or have a family history of eye diseases - don't wait, prevention is the best line of defence. Book an appointment with one our specialised optometrists.
