KERATOCONUS Q&A: SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

To help you understand more about this condition, Advanced Eyecare Consultants, your premier eye doctor in Barrington, IL, shares the facts you need to know in this Q and A.

1. What is Keratoconus? This is a non-inflammatory eye condition that occurs when normally round, dome-shaped corneas thin continuously, resulting in a cone-shaped bulge. This cone shape deflects light as it enters the retina, leading to blurred vision. Since this negatively affects eyesight, even simple tasks like reading, driving, or watching TV might prove difficult.

2. What causes this condition? Studies associate keratoconus with overexposure to UV rays, excessive rubbing of the eyes, and a history of poorly fitted contacts and chronic eye irritation. New research also suggests that weakening corneal tissue results in keratoconus because of an imbalance of enzymes within the cornea. This leaves it more open to oxidative damage from free radicals.

3. What are its symptoms? The early indications of Keratoconus can be difficult to catch. However, if you’re experiencing blurred or distorted vision, or increased sensitivity to light, you should go for a comprehensive eye checkup. Advanced Eyecare Consultants can help you with this. As your expert eye doctor in Barrington, IL, we’ll determine if your symptoms are indicative of this eye condition.

4. Who is at risk of keratoconus? While this condition is uncommon, it isn’t that rare either. According to the National Keratoconus Foundation (NKCF), it can occur to 1 out of 2,000 people. Keratoconus usually begins in the late teens or early twenties. This condition can also occur in one or both eyes.

5. How do you deal with this eye problem? All you need to do is turn to your reliable optometrist in Barrington, IL, Advanced Eyecare Consultants. After an exam that confirms this condition, we’ll help you deal with it through our treatment options. Some of these include:

6. Gas Permeable (GP) Contact Lenses—These feature a rigid lens material that enables them to replace the cornea’s irregular shape with a smoother, more uniform refracting surface. This improves vision considerably.

7. “Piggybacking” Contact Lenses—This involves using two different types of contacts on the same eye. By placing soft contacts on the eye, then fitting GP lens over them, it increases wearer comfort while improving eyesight.

Turn to Advanced Eyecare Consultants before keratoconus compromises your vision. Call our number or fill out this form today to schedule your appointment.