Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of your eye. The cornea begins to thin and gradually bulges outward into a cone-like shape, which can significantly distort your vision. It generally manifests in the teenage years or early twenties, and its progression varies; for some, it may advance rapidly, while for others, it may occur over several decades.
 

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Recognizing the early signs of keratoconus is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Initially, you might notice a slight blurring or distortion of your vision. You may find that you need frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription or that your glasses no longer provide a clear image. Glare and light sensitivity are also common complaints, often making night driving more challenging.
 

As the condition progresses, the symptoms tend to become more pronounced. You may observe a significant increase in the severity and frequency of these visual disturbances. Additionally, the development of a halo around lights or multiple ghost images can be particularly disconcerting. These effects are due to the irregular shape of the cornea, which scatters light as it enters your eye, leading to distorted images on your retina.
 

It's important to note that keratoconus can affect both eyes, though it may not progress at the same rate in each eye. This can result in a marked difference in vision between your eyes, adding to the complexity of finding an effective visual correction.
 

The Role of Specialty Contacts in Managing Keratoconus

For many individuals with keratoconus, eyeglasses are insufficient to correct their vision due to the irregular shape of the cornea. This is where specialty contact lenses come into play, as they can provide a smooth refractive surface to improve vision. There are a few types of specialty contact lenses that are commonly used to manage keratoconus.
 

The first type is rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. These lenses are firm and maintain their shape when you blink, creating a consistent surface that can effectively correct the irregularities caused by keratoconus. 
 

Another option is hybrid contact lenses, which feature a rigid center to correct vision and a soft outer ring for comfort.
 

Scleral lenses are larger-diameter RGP lenses that rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, and vault over the irregular cornea, providing comfort and excellent visual acuity.
 

Other Treatment Options for Keratoconus

When specialty contact lenses are not enough, or if the condition continues to progress, other interventions may be necessary. One such treatment is corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL). CXL is a minimally invasive procedure designed to strengthen the corneal tissue and halt the progression of keratoconus. During the procedure, a combination of riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and ultraviolet light is applied to the cornea, which helps to create new corneal collagen cross-links, adding rigidity to the cornea.
 

Navigating Keratoconus Effectively

Managing keratoconus is a journey that involves understanding the nature of the condition, recognizing its symptoms, and exploring various treatment options available to you. Living with keratoconus requires adjustments, but with the right care and support, you can maintain an active, fulfilling life.
 

For more information on managing keratoconus and treatment options, contact Inclima Eye Care at our office in West Haven, Connecticut. Call (203) 694-0418 to schedule an appointment today.