Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that occurs when the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This abnormal shape distorts vision, making it difficult for light entering the eye to focus properly on the retina, which results in blurred or distorted vision. While it is a relatively rare condition, affecting about 1 in 2,000 people, its impact on vision can be profound if not managed appropriately.
At G&G Eye Doctors, we provide advanced care for patients with keratoconus. Our approach combines cutting-edge diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate patient care to address the condition at every stage. Whether you're seeking a diagnosis or exploring advanced treatment options like scleral lenses or corneal cross-linking, our team is here to help you achieve optimal vision and quality of life.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus remains unclear, but researchers believe it is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and biomechanical factors. Here's a closer look:
- Genetic Factors: A family history of keratoconus increases the risk of developing the condition. Studies suggest that certain genetic mutations may predispose individuals to corneal thinning and structural changes.
- Eye Rubbing: Chronic eye rubbing, often associated with allergies or conditions like atopic dermatitis, can weaken the cornea and exacerbate keratoconus. Patients with keratoconus are often advised to avoid rubbing their eyes.
- Collagen Weakness: The cornea's shape is maintained by collagen fibers. Weak or poorly structured collagen can allow the cornea to deform under normal intraocular pressure, leading to keratoconus.
- Environmental Factors: Chronic exposure to UV light, oxidative stress, and other environmental triggers may contribute to the breakdown of corneal collagen and the development of keratoconus.
- Systemic Conditions: Conditions like Down syndrome, connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), and sleep apnea are linked to a higher prevalence of keratoconus.
Understanding these risk factors can help patients make lifestyle adjustments and seek early intervention to preserve their vision.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Keratoconus
Keratoconus often begins in adolescence or early adulthood and progresses slowly over time. The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition and the stage of progression:
Early Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision, particularly for distant objects
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, often with little improvement
- Difficulty seeing at night due to halos and glare around lights
Advanced Symptoms
- Severe distortion of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses
- Double vision or "ghosting" images in one or both eyes
- Noticeable thinning or bulging of the cornea, visible under close inspection
- Hydrops, a sudden and painful swelling of the cornea caused by fluid leakage
If left untreated, keratoconus can lead to significant vision impairment, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
How We Diagnose Keratoconus
Diagnosing keratoconus requires a thorough eye examination and the use of advanced diagnostic tools to assess the cornea's shape, thickness, and overall health. At G&G Eye Doctors, we utilize the following techniques:
- Corneal Topography: This non-invasive imaging technique maps the curvature of the cornea, revealing irregularities that indicate keratoconus.
- Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of the cornea, helping to detect areas of thinning commonly associated with keratoconus.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: A detailed evaluation of the cornea's surface and layers under magnification, allowing us to identify structural abnormalities.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): High-resolution cross-sectional imaging of the cornea to assess its internal structure and detect subtle changes.
Regular monitoring is essential for patients with keratoconus to track progression and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Comprehensive Treatment Options for Keratoconus
Managing keratoconus involves stabilizing the cornea and improving vision. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Specialty Contact Lenses: Scleral lenses, rigid gas-permeable lenses, and hybrid lenses are designed to correct vision by creating a smooth refractive surface over the irregular cornea.
- Eyeglasses: In the early stages of keratoconus, eyeglasses may provide adequate vision correction, but they are typically insufficient for advanced cases.
Surgical Treatments
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): This minimally invasive procedure strengthens the cornea by creating new collagen bonds, halting disease progression.
- Intacs: These small, curved implants are inserted into the cornea to reshape and flatten its surface, improving vision.
- Corneal Transplant: In severe cases where the cornea becomes too thin or scarred, a full or partial corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision.
Why Choose G&G Eye Doctors for Keratoconus Care?
At G&G Eye Doctors, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for keratoconus. Here’s what sets us apart:
Specialized Expertise
Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and managing keratoconus, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Advanced Technology
We utilize the latest diagnostic tools, such as corneal topography and OCT imaging, for accurate detection and monitoring of keratoconus.
Personalized Care
We take the time to understand your unique needs and create a customized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Convenient Locations
With clinics in Cambridge and Brampton, we provide accessible, high-quality care close to home.
Our Locations
Visit G&G Eye Doctors at our Cambridge or Brampton locations for expert glaucoma care.
Cambridge
534 Hespeler Road, Cambridge, ON N1R 6J7
Brampton
164 Queen Street East, Brampton, ON L6V 1B4