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Keratoconus FAQs

Keratoconus is a condition of the eye that causes the cornea to bulge outward. This occurs when the cornea becomes too thin to hold its round shape. Fortunately, it can be treated by our ophthalmologists and optometrists at the Museum District Eye Center in Houston. 

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Who Is At Risk For Keratoconus?

While anyone can develop keratoconus, there are a few risk factors that can increase your chances of developing it.

  • Genetics: Genetics is the most common risk factor for this condition. People who have keratoconus also have a parent who suffers from it.
  • Eye rubbing: Frequent, vigorous eye rubbing can wear down the cornea, which over time, can cause keratoconus.
  • Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase your chance of getting keratoconus such as hay fever, asthma, Down syndrome, retinitis pigmentosa, and Ehlers-Danos syndrome.

What Are the Symptoms Of Keratoconus?

In the early stages, you may not experience any symptoms at all. Over time, you can begin to experience:

  • Blurry vision
  • Distorted vision
  • Sensitivity to light and glare
  • Sudden cloudy vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Frequently needing a new prescription

How Is Keratoconus Diagnosed?

Keratoconus can be diagnosed during an annual eye exam. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or if you have a family history of keratoconus, your ophthalmologist or optometrist can run a few tests to make a definite diagnosis.

  • Slit-lamp examination: This test involves your eye doctor directing a vertical beam of light on your eye using a low-powered microscope to get a good look at your eye. It also helps your doctor to evaluate the shape of your cornea.
  • Keratometry: During this test, the reflection of the cornea is measured to determine the shape of the cornea.
  • Computerized corneal mapping: This test can create a detailed map of the surface of your cornea. Not only can this test diagnose keratoconus, but it can also track the progression of the disease.

How Is Keratoconus Treated?

There are a few treatment options for keratoconus, and your ophthalmologist or optometrist will determine the best option for your condition.

  • New prescription: In the early stages of keratoconus, a new prescription can treat your symptoms.
  • Gas-permeable lenses: Gas-permeable lenses help hold the round shape of your eye better than a soft lens can. If you cannot get used to the gas-permeable lens, your eye doctor can prescribe a soft lens to wear underneath to act as a cushion. This is known as a piggyback lens.
  • Scleral lenses: Unlike traditional lenses, scleral lenses sit on the white of your eye, and vault over your cornea.
  • Corneal transplant: In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary.

Our Eye Doctors in Houston Can Treat Your Condition

Our eye doctors at Museum District Eye Center in Houston can relieve your symptoms of keratoconus with a treatment plan. Call us today at 713-333-0151 to schedule an appointment.

 

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