A keratoconus diagnosis may cause some concern in patients, especially if you are unsure how it affects your eyesight. Keratoconus is an uncommon eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and become cone-shaped. This is what leads to blurred vision and other symptoms. Patients with questions about keratoconus should schedule a visit with a board-certified ophthalmologist.
About Keratoconus
The cornea is a transparent dome-shaped covering over your eye. It focuses light onto the retina so you can see clearly. Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape. Light rays are then focused improperly, leading to distortion and blurred vision. This condition can occur in one eye or both. While there is no single cause for keratoconus, some risk factors include genetics. So, if anyone in your family has keratoconus, we suggest attending regular checkups with an eye doctor.
Common Keratoconus Symptoms
Keratoconus can only be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye assessment. The experts at Mattioli Vision Professionals may measure the curvature of your corneas to provide a diagnosis. Please let us know if you have any concerning symptoms, especially poor vision that has only worsened over time. Eye irritation is also common with keratoconus. However, try your best not to rub or scratch your eyes too often. This can lead to permanent damage. You may also experience symptoms, like:
- Vision loss
- Blurred vision
- Eye redness or swelling
- Sensitivity to light
- Distorted vision
- Nearsightedness and/or astigmatism
Keratoconus Treatment
Without keratoconus treatment in Houston, your condition will continue to progress. The cornea will get thinner, and the bulging of the cornea may become irreversible. While keratoconus does not always lead to blindness, it can cause severe vision loss, nearsightedness, astigmatism, and sensitivity to light. During the early stages of keratoconus, Dr. Mattioli may prescribe eye drops to provide relief from discomfort and inflammation.
Another effective keratoconus treatment option is called corneal cross-linking therapy. It is designed to strengthen the cornea and reduce the negative impact of keratoconus on your eyes. We begin by applying a layer of liquid riboflavin, also called Vitamin B2, to the cornea. Ultraviolet laser light is then used to improve the texture of the corneal surface. Our laser eye surgery experts can recommend corneal cross-linking during a consultation.
Gain clear vision in Houston
As we mentioned, routine eye exams are important for detecting keratoconus as early as possible. Mattioli Vision Professionals can evaluate the shape of your cornea and assess symptoms, like astigmatism and sensitivity to light. To prevent vision loss long-term, reach out for a consultation with Dr. Fred Mattioli in Houston, TX. Our specialists have helped countless patients in Woodlands, Sugar Land, River Oaks, and West University see clearly again.
