Keratoconus is a creeping eye disease, occurring in one among two thousand. Since it progresses very slowly without any defiant symptoms, it is misconstrued with normal vision problems. Keratoconus affects the cornea, which is the outer layer of the eye responsible for 80-90 % of vision. Hence, visiting an ophthalmologist on having persistent vision problems is essential. You can visit an eye specialist in Santacruz for having a regular eye check-up, which can help in the early diagnosis of any eye problems and suggest early precautions and preventions.
Keratoconus, What is It? What Causes It?
Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the cornea of the eye, which is typically round, cannot hold its shape and becomes conical and bulged from the center. The cornea is made of collagen fibers; when these fibers become weak, they are unable to hold the concavity due to the bulge, therefore, progressing in a conical shape.
The cornea is also called the windshield of the eye. Collagen weakens due to the reduced production of antioxidants that help remove the toxins from the eye layer, making it weak and unable to hold its shape.
Keratoconus can be caused due to several factors, some of which are discussed below:
● Hereditary
A family history of keratoconus has greater chances of developing the disorder. Regular visits for eye check can help check keratoconus in the early stages.
● Age Group
Early diagnosis may help in checking this disease in its early stages. Mostly teens to people in their thirties are most likely affected by the disease. Though, the people above thirties may also develop it.
● Underlying Diseases
Researches have found some relationship between keratoconus’s occurrence with some diseases. For example, down syndrome, osteogenesis, and retinitis pigmentosa can trigger this disease.
● Excessive Rubbing Of Eye
Rubbing eyes churn and tear the outer layer, making it prone to keratoconus.
● Inflammation
Inflammation arising from existing diseases like asthma, atopic eye diseases, and allergies can break down the cornea’s tissues, causing keratoconus.
Symptoms
Though it doesn’t t cast very distinguished symptoms, some symptoms are as follows:
- Blurry vision
- Frequent changes in eyeglasses
- Glares on objects
- Seeing multiple, hazed copies of objects.
Treatments
The probable treatment for keratoconus is strengthening corneal tissue and help to correct vision problems. The treatments include:
● Glasses and Contact Lenses
For correcting vision problems
● Surgery
Surgery is the most accurate measure to treat keratoconus. The type of surgery depends on the eye condition and diagnosis for keratoconus treatment in Mumbai. The surgeries are namely.
1. Corneal transplants
The transplants include replacing the affected cornea with a healthy cornea.
2. Corneal Crosslinking
The procedure stops the progression of the disease.
3. Intracorneal Rings
These rings are inserted into the irregularly shaped cornea using a laser to treat keratoconus.
4. Toric Implantable Contact Lenses
In this surgery, a permanent contact lens is inserted in the eye. This is usually an option in cases when keratoconus is not progressing.
Our eye specialist in Santacruz understands the importance of vision and believes in sharing important information with eye patients. Many eye diseases can be prevented by an eye check-up at least once a year. Pledge to take care care of your family members and you. To learn more about your eyes, reach out to us.
