keratoconus
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Keratoconus: Vision Problem Due to Corneal Deformity
Keratoconus is an eye disease characterized by thinning and outward tapering of the cornea. The cornea, which should normally be round and dome-shaped, takes the shape of a cone due to keratoconus and prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina. This condition causes blurred or distorted vision and can lead to serious vision loss in later stages. Keratoconus, which usually occurs at young ages, can cause vision problems such as astigmatism and myopia.
What is Keratoconus and How Does It Develop?
Keratoconus is a disease that occurs as a result of weakening of the corneal structure. The cornea is located at the front of the eye and regulates the entry of light into the eye. In the case of keratoconus, the cornea loses its elasticity and begins to thin and take a cone shape. Corneal deformation prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina and causes a decrease in vision quality. Keratoconus usually begins in adolescence and may continue to progress until the late twenties.
Keratoconus Symptoms
1. Blurred Vision: Due to the deformation of the cornea, images cannot be seen clearly and blurriness occurs.
2. Sensitivity to Light: Sensitivity to light sources increases, especially at night. Light scattering may be seen from light sources such as headlights or street lamps.
3. Double or Distorted Vision: Images may be perceived as double or distorted due to the irregularity of the corneal surface.
4. Increase in Astigmatism and Myopia: As keratoconus progresses, the degree of astigmatism and myopia in the eye may increase.
5. Change Glasses Frequently: Glasses prescriptions can change quickly and require frequent replacement of glasses.
Keratoconus Causes
The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but some risk factors and factors may increase the risk of developing the disease:
• Genetic Factors: People with a family history of keratoconus are more likely to develop the disease.
• Allergic Eye Diseases and Eye Rubbing: Constant eye rubbing can damage corneal tissue, increasing the risk of keratoconus.
• Hormonal Changes: Keratoconus symptoms may appear or accelerate during periods of intense hormonal changes, such as adolescence.
• Exposure to UV Rays: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can weaken the cornea and increase the risk of developing the disease.
How to Diagnose Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is diagnosed through a detailed eye examination and corneal mapping performed by an ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis of keratoconus is very important to stop the progression of the disease. The main methods used in the diagnostic process are:
• Keratometry: It is a test that evaluates the deformity of the cornea by measuring the corneal curvature.
• Corneal Topography: By mapping the corneal surface, it shows the degree of keratoconus and irregularities in the cornea.
• Pachymetry: It measures the corneal thickness and evaluates whether there is thinning. Corneal thickness may be thinned in keratoconus patients.
Keratoconus Treatment Methods
Keratoconus treatment may vary depending on the degree of progression of the disease and the patient’s vision status. There are more treatment options in cases of keratoconus diagnosed early. The main methods used in the treatment of keratoconus are:
• Glasses or Contact Lens: In the early stages of the disease, vision can be corrected with the use of glasses or soft contact lenses. However, in later stages, hard or specially designed contact lenses may be required.
• Corneal Cross-Linking: It is a method used to stop the progression of keratoconus. It strengthens the corneal tissue and helps prevent its thinning. With this treatment, the progression of keratoconus can be stopped to a large extent.
• Rings Placed in the Cornea (ICR): Thanks to small rings placed inside the cornea, corneal curvature is corrected and vision quality is improved. This method can be applied to patients with moderate and severe keratoconus.
• Corneal Transplantation (Cornea Transplant): In advanced cases of keratoconus, corneal transplantation may be necessary due to damage to the corneal tissue. Damaged corneal tissue is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
• Scleral Lenses: These large diameter lenses placed in the white part of the eye cover the cornea, eliminating irregularities and providing clearer vision.
Living with Keratoconus
Keratoconus can be kept under control with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regular eye examination and doctor follow-up are very important during the treatment process. People being treated for keratoconus are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes and wear UV protective glasses. Compliance with the treatment process and compliance with the treatment methods recommended by the doctor are necessary to stop the progression of the disease.
