Understanding Keratoconus: Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the shape and structure of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. In keratoconus, the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing distorted vision and increased sensitivity to light. This condition typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can significantly impact the quality of life if left untreated.
Symptoms of Keratoconus:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Eye strain or headaches
- Seeing halos around lights
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek professional evaluation to diagnose and manage the condition early.
Causes and Risk Factors: The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development:
- Genetic predisposition (family history of keratoconus)
- Chronic eye inflammation from allergies or irritants
- Excessive eye rubbing
- Certain connective tissue disorders
Understanding these factors can help in early detection and management.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Swastik Eye Institute: At Swastik Eye Institute, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus, using advanced technology and personalized care plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Diagnosis: Our comprehensive eye exams include:
- Corneal Topography: Mapping the curvature of the cornea to detect early changes in shape.
- Pachymetry: Measuring the thickness of the cornea.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: Detailed examination of the cornea.
- Keratometry: Measuring the curvature of the cornea.
Treatment Options: The treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Eyeglasses or Soft Contact Lenses: For mild cases, these can correct vision problems caused by keratoconus.
- Specialty Contact Lenses: Including rigid gas-permeable lenses, scleral lenses, or hybrid lenses designed to provide better vision correction and comfort.
- Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the corneal tissue to halt the progression of keratoconus. This treatment uses ultraviolet light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) to create new bonds between collagen fibers in the cornea.
- Intacs: Small, arc-shaped inserts placed in the cornea to flatten its shape and improve vision.
- Topography-Guided Custom Ablation Treatment (T-CAT): Laser treatment to smooth and reshape the cornea.
- Corneal Transplant: In advanced cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged cornea with healthy donor tissue.
Why Choose Swastik Eye Institute:
- Expertise and Experience: Our team of ophthalmologists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating keratoconus.
- Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies to provide the highest standard of care.
- Personalized Care: We develop individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
- Comprehensive Follow-Up: We offer ongoing care and monitoring to manage keratoconus effectively and ensure long-term eye health.