Keratoconus Symptoms and Causes | LYGOS 2025

Keratoconus: A Guide to Symptoms, Risks, and Treatments

Your vision is one of your most vital senses, playing a crucial role in how you experience the world. But what happens when an eye condition like keratoconus begins to alter your ability to see clearly? Keratoconus, a progressive eye disease, can disrupt everyday life with blurry or distorted vision if left untreated.

This guide is designed to provide clear and accessible information about keratoconus for those recently diagnosed or seeking to learn more. Let’s explore what keratoconus is, how it affects vision, its symptoms, causes, risk factors, and the treatment options available to manage this condition effectively.

What is Keratoconus?

In keratoconus, the cornea loses its normal shape and becomes irregular, causing vision to appear blurry or distorted. Normally, the cornea is round and helps focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. In keratoconus, the altered shape of the cornea leads to distorted or blurred vision.

The term “keratoconus” comes from the Greek words “kerato” (cornea) and “konos” (cone). This condition often develops during the teenage years or early adulthood and tends to worsen gradually over time. While keratoconus is not life-threatening, its impact on vision can significantly affect daily activities like reading, driving, or using digital devices.

How Does Keratoconus Affect Your Vision?

Keratoconus distorts the cornea’s normal shape, creating an uneven surface. This irregular curvature affects how light rays enter the eye and focus on the retina, causing visual disturbances such as:

Blurred vision occurs because the misshapen cornea prevents light from focusing properly. Double vision or seeing overlapping images is another common issue. People with keratoconus may also struggle with light sensitivity and glare, especially at night. Distorted shapes, such as wavy lines or stretched objects, are frequently reported. Additionally, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions can indicate worsening keratoconus. Advanced cases might involve corneal scarring, which further impairs vision and makes correction with standard lenses difficult.

Keratoconus Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Symptoms of keratoconus usually appear in the early stages of the disease and may worsen as it progresses:

• 1.Blurred or cloudy vision.
• 2.Increased sensitivity to light and glare.
• 3.Difficulty seeing at night.
• 4.Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions.
• 5.Seeing halos around lights.

Causes of Keratoconus

Although the precise cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, several factors are believed to increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of keratoconus are at greater risk.
• Chronic Eye Rubbing: Excessive rubbing of the eyes, often linked to allergies, can damage the cornea.
• Collagen Weakness: The cornea is made of collagen fibers, which may weaken or break down, causing the cornea to lose its shape.

Keratoconus Risk Factors

Some people are more likely to develop keratoconus due to genetic influences or other environmental factors:

• Family History: Genetics play a significant role in this condition.
• Eye Conditions: Those with conditions like retinitis pigmentosa or eye allergies may be at higher risk.
• Chronic Eye Rubbing: Repeated rubbing due to irritation or allergies can exacerbate keratoconus.
• Certain Disorders: Conditions like Down syndrome and Marfan syndrome are sometimes associated with keratoconus.

Early detection is critical, especially if you have these risk factors. Regular eye exams can help diagnose keratoconus in its initial stages.

Keratoconus Specialist Near Me

Identifying a specialist to manage keratoconus is essential for effective treatment and care. Look for an ophthalmologist or optometrist experienced in corneal diseases and advanced diagnostic tools such as corneal topography.

A specialist can provide personalized care, including monitoring the progression of keratoconus and recommending the most suitable treatments. When searching for a specialist, consider their expertise, access to advanced treatments, and patient reviews to ensure quality care.

Keratoconus Treatment Cost

The cost of keratoconus treatment varies based on the severity of the condition and the type of intervention. Specialty contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable or scleral lenses, typically range from $800 to $2,000 per pair.

Corneal cross-linking (CXL), a procedure to strengthen the cornea, costs approximately $2,500 to $4,000 per eye. Intacs, small implants used to reshape the cornea, can cost between $1,500 and $2,500 per eye. In advanced cases, corneal transplants may cost $10,000 to $15,000 per eye. Insurance coverage may vary, so consult your provider for details.

Keratoconus Treatment

Treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of the condition. Early-stage treatment may involve glasses or soft contact lenses to correct mild vision issues. For moderate cases, rigid gas permeable or hybrid lenses provide better correction. Corneal cross-linking is an option to halt the progression of the disease. For advanced cases, Intacs or corneal transplants may be necessary. Each treatment option has unique benefits and risks, so it’s important to work closely with your eye care professional to determine the best approach.

Conclusion

Keratoconus is a manageable eye condition when detected early. Understanding the symptoms, identifying potential causes, and exploring available treatments are key to maintaining a good quality of life for those living with keratoconus. If you or a loved one suspect keratoconus, don’t delay seeking professional advice. With advancements in treatment, there’s a solution for every stage of the disease.

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