Keratoconus is an eye condition that causes the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye — to gradually thin and bulge outward into a cone-like shape. As the cornea changes shape, it can distort how light enters the eye and make vision blurry or irregular. A comprehensive eye exam can help identify corneal changes and determine whether keratoconus may be affecting your vision.
Keratoconus often begins in the teens or twenties and may progress over time. Early diagnosis is important because vision correction options can be tailored to the condition’s severity and your day-to-day needs.
What are the symptoms of keratoconus?
Keratoconus can make vision less clear even when you are wearing glasses or contacts. Symptoms may begin subtly and become more noticeable as the cornea changes.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Increasing sensitivity to light and glare
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
- Frequent changes to your glasses or contact lens prescription
- Headaches or eye strain
- Double vision in one eye
- Trouble getting sharp vision with standard contact lenses
These symptoms can overlap with other vision problems, so an exam is the best way to determine the cause.
What causes keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus is not always known. Research suggests that genetics may play a role, and the condition can run in families. It may also be associated with frequent or vigorous eye rubbing, allergies that cause itchy eyes, and certain connective tissue or health conditions.
Keratoconus is not caused by reading, screen use, or wearing contact lenses. However, if you regularly rub your eyes because of irritation or allergies, it is worth discussing with your eye doctor.
What are the treatment options for keratoconus?
Treatment depends on the shape of the cornea, how much the condition has progressed, and how well you can see with glasses or standard contacts. Mild keratoconus may be managed with glasses or soft contact lenses. As vision becomes more irregular, specialty contact lenses may provide clearer, more stable vision.
Scleral lenses are a common option for people with keratoconus. These larger-diameter lenses rest on the white part of the eye and vault over the cornea, creating a smooth optical surface that can help reduce distortion caused by the cornea’s irregular shape.
Some patients may also need care from a corneal specialist. Depending on the condition, options may include corneal cross-linking to help slow progression or, in advanced cases, other surgical treatment. Your eye doctor can help determine when specialty care or a referral is appropriate.
Get clearer vision with personalized keratoconus care
Keratoconus can make everyday activities — from driving at night to reading fine print — more challenging. The right evaluation and vision correction plan can make a meaningful difference in comfort and clarity. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Clarine Eye Care to discuss your symptoms and find out whether scleral lenses or another option may support your vision.
