Blurry or distorted vision is often caused by a refractive error that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. However, when vision becomes increasingly irregular or prescriptions change frequently, an underlying corneal condition may be responsible.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the shape and structural integrity of the cornea.
Although keratoconus is less common than ordinary nearsightedness or astigmatism, early recognition is important because treatments may help slow progression and preserve vision.
At Bandera Eye Care in Bandera, TX, understanding the warning signs of corneal disease can help patients recognize when specialized evaluation may be necessary.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea gradually becomes thinner and protrudes into a more cone-like shape.
The cornea is the transparent front surface of the eye responsible for much of its focusing power.
When its shape becomes irregular, incoming light no longer focuses evenly on the retina.
This produces irregular astigmatism and distorted vision.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause is not fully understood.
Research suggests that genetic, structural, and environmental factors contribute to its development.
Genetics and Family History
People with a family history of keratoconus have an increased risk.
Eye Rubbing
Frequent or vigorous eye rubbing is associated with keratoconus development and progression.
Allergic Eye Disease
People with chronic allergies may rub their eyes more frequently, potentially contributing to mechanical stress on the cornea.
Connective Tissue and Other Conditions
Keratoconus has been associated with certain systemic and genetic conditions, although most affected patients do not have a major systemic disorder.
What Are the Early Symptoms of Keratoconus?
Increasingly Blurry Vision
Vision may become less clear even with updated glasses.
Frequent Prescription Changes
Patients may experience repeated increases in astigmatism or changes in refractive correction.
Distorted Images
Straight lines may appear irregular, and objects may look stretched or ghosted.
Light Sensitivity and Glare
Headlights and bright lights may produce glare, halos, or multiple images.
Difficulty Seeing at Night
Irregular corneal curvature can interfere with nighttime visual quality.
At What Age Does Keratoconus Develop?
Keratoconus often begins during adolescence or early adulthood.
Progression may be more rapid in younger patients, although the disease can continue to change later in life.
Early diagnosis is especially important in children and teenagers with progressive corneal abnormalities.
How Is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
Refraction and Visual Acuity Testing
These tests assess vision quality and the degree of refractive error.
Slit-Lamp Examination
The eye doctor examines the cornea for thinning, scarring, and other structural abnormalities.
Corneal Topography
Topography creates a detailed map of the cornea’s curvature.
It can identify characteristic irregularities that may not be apparent during a basic examination.
Corneal Tomography
Tomography provides additional information about corneal shape and thickness, including the posterior corneal surface.
Pachymetry
Measures corneal thickness and helps assess thinning.
What Treatments Are Available for Keratoconus?
Eyeglasses
Glasses may provide adequate vision correction during early disease.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Rigid gas-permeable, hybrid, or scleral lenses may improve vision by creating a more regular optical surface.
Corneal Cross-Linking
Corneal collagen cross-linking is designed to strengthen corneal tissue and reduce progression.
It is particularly important for patients with documented progressive keratoconus.
Cross-linking is not intended primarily to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Corneal Surgery
Advanced cases with significant scarring or inadequate visual correction may require specialized surgical treatment, including corneal transplantation.
Can Keratoconus Cause Blindness?
Keratoconus can cause severe visual impairment, especially in advanced disease.
However, many patients maintain useful vision with appropriate treatment and optical correction.
Early diagnosis and monitoring can improve long-term management.
How Can Patients Help Reduce Keratoconus Progression Risk?
Avoid vigorous eye rubbing, address chronic itching appropriately, and follow recommended monitoring.
Patients with progressive keratoconus should discuss timely cross-linking evaluation with an appropriate corneal specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keratoconus
Is Keratoconus the Same as Astigmatism?
No. Keratoconus is a structural corneal disorder that often produces irregular astigmatism.
Can Keratoconus Be Cured?
There is no simple cure that restores the cornea to its original structure. Treatments can improve vision or slow progression.
Is Keratoconus Hereditary?
Genetic factors contribute to risk, and family members may benefit from evaluation when clinically indicated.
Can Glasses Correct Keratoconus?
Glasses may work during early stages, but more advanced irregularity often requires specialty contact lenses.
What Is Corneal Cross-Linking?
Cross-linking uses riboflavin and controlled ultraviolet light to strengthen corneal collagen and reduce progression.
Does Keratoconus Always Affect Both Eyes?
It commonly affects both eyes, although one eye may be more severely affected.
Can LASIK Treat Keratoconus?
Conventional LASIK is generally contraindicated in keratoconus because it can further weaken the cornea.
When Should Someone With Keratoconus See a Specialist?
Prompt specialist evaluation is important when progression is suspected, vision changes rapidly, or cross-linking may be appropriate.
Contact Information
If you experience frequent prescription changes, increasing astigmatism, or distorted vision, Bandera Eye Care can help assess your eye health and discuss whether additional corneal evaluation is appropriate.
Bandera Eye Care 1136 Main Street Bandera, TX 78003 Phone: (830) 850-0628 Website: banderaeyecare.com