Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the normally round cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This distorts vision and makes everyday tasks like reading or driving challenging. Early detection and modern treatments can halt its progression and often restore clear sight.
In this guide, we’ll define keratoconus, explore its underlying causes, recognize its key symptoms, and review the full range of treatment options—so you can feel confident about your eye health and vision care.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory corneal disorder in which structural changes weaken the tissue, causing it to thin and bulge outward like a cone. This abnormal shape prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Most cases begin during the teenage years or early twenties and can progress for 10–20 years before stabilizing.
What Causes Keratoconus?
Although the exact cause of keratoconus remains under investigation, several factors are known to contribute:
- Genetic Predisposition: Up to 10% of keratoconus patients have a family history of the condition.
- Eye Rubbing & Allergies: Chronic eye rubbing—often linked to allergic eye disease—can weaken corneal fibers.
- Biochemical Factors: Imbalances in enzymes and oxidative stress within the cornea may degrade collagen, reducing corneal strength.
- Systemic Conditions: Keratoconus is more common among patients with connective-tissue disorders (e.g., Down syndrome or Ehlers–Danlos syndrome).
Recognizing the Effects & Symptoms
Because keratoconus alters corneal shape gradually, early signs can be subtle. Common symptoms include:
- Blurry or Distorted Vision: Objects may appear wavy or stretched.
- Increased Sensitivity to Light & Glare: Bright lights can produce halos or starbursts.
- Frequent Prescription Changes: Rapid shifts in eyeglass or contact-lens strength.
- Ghosting & Double Vision: Especially in one eye, even with corrective lenses.
Routine eye exams—including corneal topography—are crucial for detecting these changes before vision loss becomes permanent.
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
A range of treatments can slow or halt keratoconus progression and improve vision:
- Specialty Contact Lenses: Gas-permeable, hybrid, or scleral lenses vault over the irregular cornea to provide a smooth refractive surface.
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): A minimally invasive procedure that uses riboflavin drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen corneal collagen fibers, stopping further bulging.
- Intacs® Intracorneal Ring Segments: Tiny crescent-shaped implants inserted into the cornea to flatten its cone shape and reduce astigmatism.
- Topography-Guided Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK): A specialized laser treatment that smooths and reshapes the front corneal surface.
- Corneal Transplant: In advanced cases where scarring or thinning is severe, full-thickness or partial-thickness corneal grafts may be recommended.
Expert Overview from Dr. De La Torre
Watch this brief video for a concise explanation of keratoconus, its impact on vision, and key care strategies straight from our corneal specialist.
Keep Your Corneas Strong & Vision Clear
With early diagnosis and the right treatment plan, keratoconus can be managed effectively, protecting your vision for years to come.
Schedule a comprehensive keratoconus evaluation at Southwest Eye Institute today to explore personalized care options and take control of your eye health.