Keratoconus is a condition that occurs when the cornea becomes thin and irregular which impacts your vision and causes a variety of symptoms. The good news is that there are 10 different effective methods of treatment available for keratoconus.
Advancements in medical technology provide different options for treating keratoconus throughout the stages of this degenerative disorder. Often the condition progresses slowly. As the cornea weakens and becomes thinner, it begins to bulge outward, eventually resembling a cone. This conical shape distorts refraction, leading to increased visual impairment.
The following article will discuss 10 popular methods for treating this condition. Many of these treatments follow a general progression, where each intervention represents a more advanced option to deal with more severe deterioration. Managing keratoconus is not a monolithic process, nor does it follow in a linear path. Often, combinations of treatments and interventions are required to complement one another.
In certain instances, procedures may need to be undertaken more than once over the lifetime of the patient. The following section is not a diagnostic aid, nor is it a treatment plan advocating one form of intervention over another. There is no substitute for an optometrist or eye doctor to assess, diagnose, and treat eye disorders.
While there is no definitive evidence of direct causation for keratoconus, research suggests that the following may constitute risk factors for this condition:
The presence of any of the following may be a symptom of this condition. Contact your optometrist if these symptoms persist or if you experience severe pain or others signs that might require immediate medical intervention.
The following interventions are commonly used to treat keratoconus.
Advanced medical technology provides many options for managing keratoconus throughout the different stages of the condition. Typically, as it advances and vision deteriorates, patients require changes in medical care and interventions, such as an increased dependence on specialty glasses and the need for surgical procedures.
Speak with your healthcare provider to find out precisely what medical coverage your health insurance plan entitles you to. Discuss the different options with your optometrist to create an effective treatment plan that will enable you to manage the condition and continue to enjoy healthy vision.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to visual impairment. Its potential causes could be genetic, due to trauma, or environmental factors such as heat and sun exposure. Common symptoms include blurred or distorted vision and eye strain. Treatment options are varied and often involve a combination of interventions. Initially, prescription glasses or standard soft lenses may suffice, but as the condition progresses, hard, hybrid or "piggy-backing" lenses may be needed. In severe cases, scleral lenses, corneal cross-linking, Intacs, keratoplasty, and even corneal transplants may be required. Treatment plans should be individually crafted by an optometrist, taking into account the patient's stage of disease and personal needs. Health insurance coverage should also be discussed to understand which treatments are financially accessible.
