Having problems with your eyes can be a serious issue that affects your quality of life. From driving a car to reading a book, problems with the cornea can be especially worrisome. Many of these issues occur later in life while some earlier. Fortunately, there are treatments for most ocular problems. From glasses to Lasik surgery, medical advances in ophthalmology are allowing doctors to correct vision and restore sight.
If you are suffering from Keratoconus, some things can be done. As with any medical problem, Keratoconus is better treated if it is caught early. For many people, it’s not always a top priority to get to a doctor’s office, but if you’re having issues with your sight, it’s best to make the appointment.
Keratoconus affects the vision and can have long-lasting effects if not treated properly and in a timely manner. For many sufferers, it can cause sensitivity to light and blurry vision. Not affecting the elderly, this deformation in the cornea can affect those who have certain medical conditions or trauma to the cornea.
About Keratoconus
Keratoconus occurs when there is damage to the thin outer layer of the eye. A natural dome, this thin layer is known as the cornea. This part of the eye is responsible for filtering light and acts as a windshield for your eye.
When this thin layer becomes thinner it may change from the dome shape. Usually seen as a cone in the stages of Keratoconus, the cornea will alter its shape and its functionality.
Keratoconus is responsible for:
- Blurry and distorted vision
- Sensitivity to light – Especially driving at night
- Consistently changing eyeglass prescriptions
- Clouding of vision – either overtime or suddenly
Many of these symptoms can be corrected if caught early. For those who do not seek treatment more severe and more difficult to treat issues may arise.
Keratoconus may cause scarring to the cornea. If the condition occurs due to trauma, Keratoconus may come quickly. If hydrops occurs, there will be swelling and blurred vision as the lining inside of the cornea breaks down allowing fluid to enter, this is known as hydrops.
If scarring does occur doctors can treat with cornea surgery to correct the damage. A corneal transplant is an option for those who have advanced Keratoconus.
The Causes
Affecting fifty out of every 100,000 people in the U.S. those who have the condition can seek medical care to have the condition corrected or treated. Although there is no known cause for the condition, there are factors that can contribute to the problem.
- Keratoconus may be linked to family history. If your family member is suffering from this eye-related ailment, you too may have the issue.
- Vigorous rubbing of the eye may cause damage to the cornea. As the layer thins, it may take the shape of a cone rather than the natural shape of a dome.
- Medical conditions such as; Retinitis Pigmentosa, Down Syndrome, Hay Fever, and Asthma
Affecting people who are ages 10-25 the condition can occur slowly or over the course of several years.
Contact Us for Keratoconus Treatment
Kelly Vision Center in Manhattan and Garden City can help you if you’re suffering from keratoconus. Contact us now for an appointment by calling 877-718-7818.
