What Is Keratoconus?

comprehensive eye exam You probably haven’t heard of Keratoconus. It’s an eye condition that is less well known than astigmatism, cataracts, glaucoma or other eye conditions. Keratoconus is found in approximately one in every one-thousand people; it affects people from different walks of life, geographic regions, and ethnic backgrounds. It’s a rare condition that is usually diagnosed in young adolescents. Keratoconus can run in families, so if you’ve been diagnosed with it, it’s a good idea to have your children checked as they approach adolescence.

  • Here’s what happens with keratoconus: The cornea is the outer lens of your eye and what you see through. The cornea is normally dome shaped. Sometimes, however, the cornea cannot hold this dome shape and it bulges outward like a cone.
  • The cornea produces byproducts that can be harmful to the rest of the eye, but these byproducts are normally eliminated by protective antioxidants. When antioxidants are too low, these byproducts can damage the collagen fibers that help the cornea maintain its structure.

Here are six symptoms of keratoconus:

  1. Seeing multiple images at once
  2. Halos around lights, especially at night
  3. Headaches and eye irritation
  4. Blurred or distorted vision
  5. Sensitivity to light
  6. Streaks in vision

If you suspect that you or your child has keratoconus, call to schedule an appointment. There are a few treatment options available, such as custom soft contact lenses, gas permeable contact lenses and Intacs. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a corneal transplant surgery. At the Longwood Eye & LASIK Center, we can diagnose this condition and help you choose a treatment plan that is best for you.

Keratoconus can be frustrating. To learn more about how to care for your eyesight or to schedule a comprehensive eye exam call us, today: (800) 676-5050.

CALL 1-855-286-2020 OR CONTACT US BELOW TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY!

For Urgent/Problem Appointments, please call the office and do not submit an online form request

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