Who is at Risk for Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the normally round cornea gradually thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to distorted and blurred vision. Keratoconus typically begins in the late teens or early 20s and can continue to progress for 10-20 years before stabilizing.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

The primary symptoms of keratoconus include:

Blurred or distorted vision
Increased sensitivity to glare and light
Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
Double vision or multiple images in one eye (monocular polyopia)
Difficulty driving at night due to halos or starbursts around lights

As the condition progresses, the cornea may become thinner and more irregular, leading to higher degrees of astigmatism and nearsightedness (myopia). This can make it increasingly difficult to achieve clear, comfortable vision with standard corrective lenses.

Who is at Risk for Keratoconus?

While the exact causes of keratoconus are not fully understood, research has identified several risk factors that may increase an individual's chances of developing the condition:

Genetics: Keratoconus appears to have a genetic component, as the condition is more common in people who have a family member with keratoconus. Studies suggest that up to 1 in 10 people with keratoconus have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with the condition.
Age: Keratoconus typically begins in the late teens or early 20s, with the condition often progressing for 10-20 years before stabilizing. The risk of developing keratoconus decreases with age.
Gender: Keratoconus appears to be slightly more common in males than females, with some studies suggesting a male-to-female ratio of around 3:2.
Ethnicity: Keratoconus has been reported in all ethnic groups, but some studies suggest a higher prevalence in certain populations, such as Asians, Hispanics, and Middle Easterners.
Atopic Conditions: Individuals with certain atopic (allergic) conditions, such as asthma, eczema, and hay fever, may be at an increased risk of developing keratoconus. The chronic eye rubbing associated with these conditions may contribute to the development and progression of the condition.
Eye Trauma: Significant eye injuries, such as a direct blow to the eye, can increase the risk of developing keratoconus or cause the condition to progress more rapidly.
Certain Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and retinitis pigmentosa, have been associated with a higher incidence of keratoconus.

Risks of Untreated Keratoconus

If left untreated, keratoconus can lead to a variety of complications that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, including:

Worsening Vision: As the cornea continues to thin and distort, the individual's vision will become increasingly blurred and distorted, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as reading, driving, and using a computer.
Corneal Scarring: In some cases, the thinning and irregular shape of the cornea can lead to scarring, further impairing vision.
Corneal Hydrops: This occurs when a break in the inner layer of the cornea (Descemet's membrane) allows fluid to enter the cornea, causing rapid swelling and vision loss. Corneal hydrops is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Increased Risk of Eye Infections: The irregular shape of the cornea in keratoconus can make the eye more susceptible to certain eye infections, such as bacterial keratitis, which can further damage the cornea and vision.
Decreased Quality of Life: The progressive nature of keratoconus and the resulting vision problems can have a significant impact on an individual's daily activities, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Keratoconus

Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for managing keratoconus and preserving vision. Keratoconus is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:

Corneal topography: A detailed map of the cornea's shape and curvature
Slit-lamp examination: A microscopic examination of the eye's structures
Pachymetry: Measurement of the cornea's thickness
Refraction testing: Evaluation of the eye's refractive error

Once keratoconus is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available, depending on the stage and progression of the condition:

Corrective Lenses: In the early stages of keratoconus, vision can often be improved with the use of eyeglasses or rigid gas-permeable contact lenses.
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking: This innovative treatment uses specialized UV light and eye drops to strengthen the cornea, helping to halt the progression of keratoconus.
Intacs: These small, crescent-shaped inserts can be placed in the cornea to help flatten and regularize its shape, improving vision.
Corneal Transplantation: In severe cases, where other treatments are no longer effective, a corneal transplant (also known as a keratoplasty) may be necessary to restore vision.

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Fier Eye Care & Surgery Center Today

By understanding the risk factors and symptoms of keratoconus, individuals can work closely with their eye doctors to ensure early detection and effective management of the condition.

Don't let keratoconus compromise your vision, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Fier Eye Care & Surgery Center to assess your risk and explore the latest treatment options. Early detection and proactive management can make all the difference in preserving your eyesight. Visit our office in Port St. Lucie or Stuart, Florida. Call 772-400-2400 or 772-286-0007 to book an appointment today.