What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is an eye condition that changes the shape of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Instead of staying round, the cornea gradually becomes thinner and bulges outward into a cone shape. This uneven shape makes it harder for the eye to focus light properly.
The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but several factors may increase the risk. A family history of the condition, chronic eye rubbing, allergies, and certain genetic or connective tissue disorders may all play a role.
As the condition progresses, vision may become blurry or distorted. Keratoconus often begins during the teenage years or early adulthood and can slowly worsen over time.
Symptoms
Keratoconus can affect vision differently from person to person. Symptoms may develop gradually and become more noticeable over the years.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Increased nearsightedness
- Astigmatism
- Trouble seeing at night
- Sensitivity to bright lights or glare
- Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions
- Eye strain or irritation
How Is It Diagnosed?
An eye care provider can diagnose keratoconus with a complete eye exam and specialized testing. Your provider will check your vision and look closely at the shape and thickness of your cornea.
Imaging tests such as corneal topography create a detailed map of the cornea and can help detect early changes. These tests are especially helpful when vision changes quickly or prescriptions no longer seem effective.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is and how much vision has changed.
In the early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may improve vision. As keratoconus progresses, specialty contact lenses designed for irregular corneas may provide clearer sight and better comfort.
Some patients benefit from corneal collagen cross-linking, a procedure that strengthens the cornea and may help slow progression. Other advanced options include corneal ring implants or implantable lenses to improve vision and support the cornea’s shape.
If the cornea becomes severely scarred or vision cannot be corrected with other treatments, a corneal transplant may be recommended.
Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor changes and protect long-term vision.
