Keratoconus FAQs
Keratoconus is a condition that occurs when the cornea begins to thin and can no longer hold its round shape and bulges out into a cone shape, affecting your vision. This condition often occurs during puberty and can progress through your mid-30s. Fortunately, the professionals at Arena Eye Care Optometry in Sacramento can help. Here are a few common questions about keratoconus.
What Are the Risk Factors of Keratoconus?
It's believed that genetics and environmental factors can cause keratoconus. Although anyone can develop keratoconus, some factors can increase the risk, including:
- Family history of keratoconus
- Certain conditions such as asthma, hay fever, retinitis pigmentosa, and Down Syndrome
- A habit of vigorous eye rubbing
What Are the Symptoms of Keratoconus?
In the early stages, the symptoms of keratoconus will be relatively mild. In the later stages, common symptoms include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Needing frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Sudden worsening of vision
- Your vision is suddenly cloudy
- Trouble driving at night.
Are There Complications Associated with Keratoconus?
In some cases, the cornea can swell very quickly and cause a sudden loss of vision or scar the cornea. In many cases, the swelling will subside on its own. However, it can leave behind a scar, affecting your vision permanently, making it essential to go to an eye doctor for proper care.
How Is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
This condition can be diagnosed during your annual eye exam. Our optometrists will use a slit-lamp to get a good look at the shape of your cornea. If we suspect you have keratoconus, our eye doctors will perform a keratometry. Our optometrist will focus a circle of light on your cornea to measure the reflection to determine the shape of your cornea.
How Is Keratoconus Treated?
A new eyeglass or contact prescription should be enough to correct your vision in the early stages. As the condition progresses, our optometrists can prescribe one of a few types of special lenses.
- Gas-permeable lenses: These lenses are rigid and can hold your eye's round shape.
- Hybrid lenses: These are another option if you can't get used to gas-permeable lenses. The lenses have a rigid center to hold the eye's shape and a soft outer ring for added comfort.
- Scleral lenses: These lenses are prescribed in the later stages when the cornea has a very irregular shape. The lenses rest on the white part of your eye, known as the sclera, and vaults over the cornea without touching it.
Visit Us for Quality Eye Care from Our Optometrists in Sacramento, CA
If you think you might have keratoconus, schedule an appointment with Arena Eye Care Optometry. Our team of skilled eye care professionals can diagnose this condition and provide the best treatment options for you.