3 Warning Signs of Keratoconus
Today’s modern families are busier than ever, especially in a post-pandemic society. There are places to go, masks to grab, and a lot of uncertainty. However, there is one thing that you’re depending on right now that’s absolutely critical: your eyes.
Keratoconus is an example of an eye condition that you may not have heard of before, but it’s one that can ultimately lead to serious eye health concerns unless it’s treated. In fact, approximately 1 in every 2,000 people are affected by keratoconus. The condition impacts the cornea which is the front surface of your eye that takes in all the light. Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin which results in it bulging into a cone shape. This cone shape distorts vision and can lead to loss of vision in the eye.
When diagnosed early, however, treatment and management options are available. Here’s what you need to know in terms of the three most common warning signs of keratoconus.
- Fast Vision Changes
Have you ever gotten a pair of glasses or contact lenses and found that you need to update your prescription after a few months? This could be a warning sign of keratoconus. As the cornea continues to bulge into the dome shape, the quality of your vision will continue to change. - Increased Light Sensitivity
The experience of being temporarily blinded by bright light is one that most of us experience occasionally, but constant irritation and sensitivity to light is a bigger concern than meets the eye. If you’re having increased sensitivity to light, it’s time to get your eyes checked. - Blurred or Cloudy Vision
At some point in your life, you have likely experienced blurred or cloudy vision. In fact, it’s something that many people tend to ignore or downplay as simply being tired. However, ongoing cloudy or blurred vision indicates more than just something in the eye or time for your eyes to adjust in the morning. Keep in mind that vision distortion can occur upon waking, during the day, or even closer to bedtime. No matter when you experience it, it’s important to realize that cloudy or blurred vision may be an indicator of looming issues.
Keratoconus Treatment Options
Our eye doctors will work with you to properly treat and manage keratoconus. At the Miami Contact Lens Institute, we recommend that you use scleral lenses to remedy keratoconus. Scleral lenses vault the cornea which means that it will not touch the impacted part of the cornea. This makes scleral lenses comfortable to wear while still addressing your vision issues.
Another treatment option that keratoconus patients have is Collagen Crosslinking, also known as CXL. This is a minimally invasive procedure that takes place in-office and is specifically designed to strengthen the cornea. This is done through creating cross links between corneal collagen fibers which can halt the keratoconus progression.
Related post: 5 Facts You Should Know About Scleral Lenses
Schedule Your Appointment with the Miami Contact Lens Institute Today
If you have concerns that you may be suffering from keratoconus, it’s important that you reach out to our expert team of eye care professionals right away. Our eye doctors will always take the time to thoroughly explain to you the impact of keratoconus on your overall eye health as well as your treatment options. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment.