Did you know that the way you perceive the world can be shaped by a condition called keratoconus? But what does keratoconus look like? This progressive eye disorder might sound complex, but it plays a significant role in how you see it.
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we specialise in understanding and treating keratoconus. If you’re curious about the visual changes it can bring, you’re in the right place. Read on to explore what keratoconus looks like and why it’s crucial to catch it early.
Understanding keratoconus
Keratoconus is a unique condition that affects the cornea, the transparent front part of your eye. A normal cornea has a smooth, dome-like shape, allowing light to enter and focus properly on the retina.
In keratoconus, the cornea thins gradually. This results in a progressively worsening cone-shaped cornea. This structural change can lead to visual disturbances and challenges.
Visual symptoms of keratoconus
What does keratoconus look like? Symptoms include:
- Blurred Vision: The gradual deformation of the cornea can result in blurred and distorted vision, making it harder to focus on objects.
- Increased Light Sensitivity: Many individuals with keratoconus experience heightened sensitivity to light, which can lead to discomfort in bright environments.
- Multiple Images: Keratoconus can cause double or multiple images (ghosting), making it difficult to see a single, clear image.
- Frequent Prescription Changes: If you find that your glasses or contact lens prescription keeps changing, keratoconus might be a contributing factor.
Signs and symptoms of keratoconus
Keratoconus can manifest in the following ways. Look out for:
- Eye Rubbing: Persistent eye rubbing can potentially contribute to the progression of keratoconus.
- Corneal Thinning: An ophthalmologist can spot signs of thinning during an eye examination.
- Changes in Prescription: Frequent prescription adjustments can signal underlying corneal changes.
Diagnostic tools and examinations
To pinpoint keratoconus and assess its severity, eye care professionals employ:
- Corneal Topography and Anterior Segment OCT: These non-invasive imaging techniques map the shape of your cornea, revealing any irregularities.
- Slit Lamp Examination: This instrument helps visualise the cornea’s surface and aids in diagnosis.
- Pachymetry: It measures corneal thickness, a critical factor in diagnosing and monitoring keratoconus.
Options for treating keratoconus
There are several treatments available for keratoconus, some of which include:
- Glasses and Soft Contact Lenses: In the early stages, these soft lens options might help correct vision and manage symptoms.
- Scleral Contact Lenses / Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Scleral lenses which are rigid contact lenses can provide a smoother corneal surface, enhancing vision for some individuals.
- Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking: This procedure strengthens the cornea by using UV light and special eye drops. This can be done without removal of the top corneal layer and with supplemental oxygen (Transepithelial Collagen Cross Linking with Oxygen Enhancement).
- Simultaneous Cross-Linking with Topography Guided PRK: This method simultaneously improves the cornea shape whilst strengthening the cornea.
- Ring segments: These tiny implants can reshape the cornea and improve vision in some cases. A new technique called CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments) employs donor tissue as corneal rings.
- Implantable Collamer Lenses: Where keratoconus is stable, the shortsightedness and astigmatism can be partially corrected by inserting a lens into the eye. This method is normally employed in conjunction with the above methods (Cross-Linking/PRK/Ring Segments).
- Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Partial corneal transplants that replace the outer layers of the cornea, preserving the innermost layer.
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP): A full-thickness corneal transplant where the damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
Choose Vision Clinic Sydney for your treatment
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we pride ourselves on our deep expertise in advanced equipment and keratoconus treatment. Dr Kumar is a cornea and refractive specialist. He has treated thousands of patients with keratoconus. He understands the intricacies of this condition and tailors treatment plans to individual needs.
With a commitment to your eye health and a focus on early detection, we’re here to guide you toward the best possible vision.
Don’t let keratoconus define your sight. Reach out to Vision Clinic Sydney and take the first step toward clearer vision.
Contact us today to book your appointment and embark on your journey to better eyesight.
Remember, understanding what keratoconus looks like can make all the difference in your eye health. Stay informed and prioritise your vision for a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you require more information on what keratoconus looks like please read our most frequently asked questions:
Can you tell if someone has keratoconus?
Yes, eye care professionals can detect keratoconus through tests like corneal topography and slit lamp exams, which reveal corneal thinning and irregularities.
At what age can you start to develop keratoconus?
Keratoconus usually starts in the teenage years to early adulthood, typically between ages 10 and 25, but adults can also start developing keratoconus later in life.
What are the 4 stages of keratoconus?
Keratoconus stages include mild (early, slight distortion), moderate (more distortion, RGP lens), advanced (further deformity, specialised lenses), and severe (significant thinning, potential need for advanced treatments).
Can a corneal transplant improve vision for keratoconus patients?
Yes, a corneal transplant, such as Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP) or Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK), can be considered when other treatments are ineffective, aiming to improve vision by replacing the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea.
Are soft contact lenses a type of treatment for keratoconus?
Yes, soft contacts can be used as a treatment option, especially in the early stages of keratoconus, to help correct vision and manage symptoms, although a rigid lens, such as a scleral lens is more commonly recommended due to their ability to provide better vision by maintaining a smooth surface.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
