What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye disease that affects the structure of the cornea, and results in poor vision. Keratoconus causes the cornea at the front of the eye to become thin and bow outwards. It’s this change of shape that makes it difficult to find glasses that will work well to correct poor vision.

Keratoconus usually begins in the late teenage years. However, it can start in the 20s or early 30s. 

What causes keratoconus?

There is no known cause of keratoconus but it can be hereditary. It has also been linked to chronic eye rubbing as well as Down syndrome.

Does keratoconus result in blindness?

Keratoconus does not result in blindness, although it can cause blurred and distorted vision. 

How do you correct keratoconus?

Improving the vision of someone with keratoconus requires patience and persistence. This is because no single treatment option works on every patient, and the condition can change frequently and rapidly.

Mild keratoconus can be successfully corrected using glasses and/or soft contact lenses.

More moderate keratoconus is best corrected with rigid gas permeable contact lenses, which provide a smooth tear layer in front of the cornea, making clear vision possible. Because the lens is rigid, the tears between the lens and the cornea form a “liquid lens” which smooth the irregularities of the cornea and make clear vision possible again.

Is surgery for keratoconus necessary?

As keratoconus progresses, your optometrist may suggest surgery. This is especially true if the cornea is becoming thin or scarred. There is promising new technology that your doctor of optometry can talk to you about.