What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. In a healthy eye, the cornea maintains a round, dome-like shape, but in keratoconus, it gradually thins and bulges outward into a cone shape. This irregular shape distorts vision, making it difficult for traditional glasses or soft contact lenses to provide clear vision.
At iSeeU Optometry, Dr. Vi Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and managing keratoconus with advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some key risk factors include:
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Genetics: A family history of keratoconus increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
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Eye Rubbing: Frequent or aggressive rubbing of the eyes may contribute to the thinning of the cornea.
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Underlying Conditions: Certain conditions, such as allergies or connective tissue disorders, are associated with an increased risk.
Symptoms of Keratoconus
Keratoconus typically begins in the teenage years or early adulthood and progresses over time. Symptoms may include:
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Blurred or distorted vision
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Increased light sensitivity and glare
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Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
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Difficulty seeing at night
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Halos around lights
If left untreated, keratoconus can lead to significant vision impairment, making early diagnosis and management essential.
How is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
At iSeeU Optometry, Dr. Vi uses advanced diagnostic tools to detect and monitor keratoconus. These tests include:
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Corneal Topography: A detailed mapping of the cornea’s shape to identify irregularities.
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Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness to detect early thinning.
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Refraction Tests: Determines the best prescription for vision correction.
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
While keratoconus cannot be cured, various treatments can help improve vision and slow its progression. At iSeeU Optometry, we offer a range of solutions, including:
1. Custom Contact Lenses
Scleral Lenses: These large-diameter lenses vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). By creating a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, scleral lenses provide sharper vision, reduce glare and halos, and offer increased comfort for those with keratoconus. They also help keep the cornea hydrated, making them an excellent option for individuals with dry eye symptoms.
Hybrid Lenses: These lenses combine a rigid gas-permeable (RGP) center with a soft outer skirt. The RGP center provides crisp vision by correcting the irregular corneal shape, while the soft edges enhance comfort and stability. Hybrid lenses are a great choice for patients who need the clarity of an RGP lens but find traditional hard lenses uncomfortable.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These hard lenses provide superior vision correction by reshaping the cornea’s surface and reducing visual distortions. Though smaller than scleral lenses, RGP lenses allow for more oxygen flow to the eye and offer an alternative for patients who may not tolerate larger lenses. However, they require an adaptation period as they rest directly on the cornea.
2. Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the weakened corneal tissue, slowing or stopping the progression of keratoconus. This FDA-approved treatment involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea, followed by controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light activates the riboflavin, forming new collagen cross-links that reinforce the cornea and prevent further bulging.
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Benefits of Corneal Cross-Linking:
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Stabilizes the cornea and halts keratoconus progression.
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Reduces the need for future invasive procedures.
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Helps maintain existing vision and prevents worsening eyesight.
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This procedure is most effective when performed in the early stages of keratoconus, so early diagnosis is crucial.
3. Intacs® (Corneal Implants)
Intacs® are small, crescent-shaped implants surgically inserted into the cornea to reshape its curvature. These implants work by flattening the cone-like bulge, improving vision, and making it easier for patients to wear contact lenses.
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Advantages of Intacs®:
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Minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
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Can be combined with other treatments like scleral lenses or cross-linking.
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Provides improved corneal stability and vision correction without a corneal transplant.
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Intacs® are a great option for patients with moderate keratoconus who are struggling with contact lens discomfort but are not yet candidates for corneal transplantation.
4. Corneal Transplant
For severe cases where keratoconus has caused extreme corneal thinning or scarring, a corneal transplant (keratoplasty) may be necessary to restore vision. During this procedure, a diseased or damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
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Types of Corneal Transplantation:
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Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): A full-thickness corneal transplant where the entire cornea is replaced.
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Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): A partial-thickness transplant that replaces only the damaged outer layers while preserving the inner layers, reducing the risk of rejection.
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Benefits of Corneal Transplantation:
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Restores clearer vision in advanced keratoconus cases.
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Provides a long-term solution when other treatments fail.
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Offers the possibility of improved contact lens tolerance after healing.
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Although corneal transplants have high success rates, they require a longer recovery period and ongoing management to prevent rejection and complications.
Why Choose iSeeU Optometry for Keratoconus Management?
At iSeeU Optometry, Dr. Vi and our dedicated team are committed to providing the highest level of care for keratoconus patients. We offer:
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Personalized treatment plans based on your unique eye condition.
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State-of-the-art diagnostic technology to monitor disease progression.
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Advanced contact lens fittings for the best possible vision correction.
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Compassionate, expert care to support you every step of the way.
Take Control of Your Vision Today
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of keratoconus, early diagnosis and treatment are key to maintaining clear vision. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Vi at iSeeU Optometry today and explore the best options for managing keratoconus and improving your quality of life.
Call us now or book your appointment online!