Keratoconus

The Changing Shape of Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a vision disorder that occurs when the normally round cornea becomes irregularly cone shaped.

This abnormal shape prevents the light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina and causes distortion of vision and increased sensitivity to glare and light.

Keratoconus symptoms usually appear between 18-30 years of age and may progress for 10-20 years. Each eye may be affected differently.

As keratoconus progresses, the cornea bulges more and vision becomes further distorted.

Spectacles or soft contact lenses may be used to correct the mild near sightedness and astigmatism that is caused by keratoconus in the early stages.

As the disorder progresses and the cornea continues to change shape, rigid gas permeable contact lenses can be prescribed to correct vision. The contact lenses must be carefully fitted, and frequent checkups and lens changes may be required to achieve and maintain good vision.