Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. As a result, it alters eyesight in two different ways. First, as the shape of the cornea alters, the surface of the cornea will start to become wavy. The result is an irregular astigmatism. Second, as the cornea expands, vision becomes increasingly nearsighted. Without eyeglasses or contact lenses, focusing becomes impossible.
Keratoconus usually starts in the teenage years. It can however, occur during childhood or in people up to about age 30. Early diagnosis is very important in the management of keratoconus. The most sensitive diagnostic method available for keratoconus detection is corneal topography. More advanced forms of topography evaluate both the front and back surface of the cornea as well as corneal thickness profiles.
Symptoms: blurred vision, distorted vision, astigmatism, double vision, inability to see in dim light, nearsightedness, sensitivity to light, or vision loss.
ASSESSING YOUR KERATOCONUS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR CONTACT LENS FIT
Contact lenses, specifically gas permeable contact lenses, provide a great option for clearer vision for those with this condition. The rigidity of a gas permeable lens helps to smooth out the front surface of the eye. Thus, making clear vision possible. In addition to gas permeable contact lenses, your eye care can be tailored using scleral or hybrid contact lenses, custom soft contact lenses, or piggyback-fit contact lenses.
Since contact lenses come in many different designs, as specialists we will create a custom design that offers the best combination of vision, comfort, and eye health. Contact us today at (805) 522-7007 to book an eye exam, or learn more about your treatment options.
Various contact lens options, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, soft and soft toric lenses, piggy back contact lenses (PBCL), hybrid lenses and scleral lenses are available.
Regardless of your age or physical health getting an annual eye exam is important.