In eyecare, there are many conditions that can cause a decrease in vision, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and cataracts, just to name a few. In many instances, these conditions can be corrected with ophthalmic lenses or soft contact lenses. However, there is a certain subset of conditions that require more nuanced investigation and precise treatment to help correct. One such condition is keratoconus.
Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea, the clear tissue on the front of the eye, begins to bulge outward in the shape of a cone. This occurs when the tissue itself is thinning, which compromises the rigidity of the cornea. This in turn makes the cornea susceptible to structural changes.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The cause of keratoconus is not well understood, but it is well-documented that genetics may play a factor. Having immediate family members with the condition may increase your risk of developing it.
It has also been found that children who rub their eyes excessively have a higher risk of developing keratoconus.
How Is Keratoconus Treated?
Keratoconus results in a cone-shaped cornea, which can create blurriness and distorted vision. In mild cases, the changes can be so slight that traditional glasses and soft contact lenses may still adequately correct vision. However, in moderate to severe cases, more specialized treatments may be required. In very severe cases, a corneal transplant may be recommended, but in many instances, a specialty lens called a scleral lens, can help improve vision.
A scleral lens is a rigid lens that vaults the cornea entirely and rests upon the white part, or sclera, of the eye. Since it vaults over the cornea, it creates a firm spherical surface that can help correct the cone shape of the cornea and lead to dramatic visual improvement. Additionally, these lenses can often be worn comfortably when fit appropriately.
Consult with an Eyecare Professional Today
As with most things, keratoconus is a nuanced condition that is dramatically different from patient to patient. Consultation with an eyecare professional for treatment is the most important step to achieving clearer vision.For more information, or to book your personal consultation, contact our team at Premier Vision Group today!