Keratoconus

Keratoconus is characterised by:

• Corneal thinning and weakening
• Progressive cone-like corneal shape
• Irregular corneal surface
• Distorted light refraction
• Potential bilateral progression
• Gradual vision deterioration
• Progression stages: Early, Moderate, Advanced, Severe

Early and progressive symptoms include:

• Blurry and distorted vision
• Increased light sensitivity
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
• Difficulty seeing clearly at night
• Ghosting or multiple images
• Eye strain
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Sudden vision changes

Potential contributing factors:

• Genetic predispositions
• Excessive eye rubbing
• Environmental influences
• Associated medical conditions
• Hormonal changes
• Oxidative stress
• Collagen structural weaknesses
• Inflammatory conditions

Comprehensive diagnostic approach:

• Corneal topography
• Pachymetry (corneal thickness measurement)
• Refraction testing
• Slit-lamp examination
• Corneal mapping
• Specialised imaging techniques
• Assessment of visual acuity
• Genetic screening

Non-Surgical Interventions

• Specialised contact lenses
• Prescription eyewear
• Vision correction methods

Corneal Cross-Linking

• Ultraviolet light treatment
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) application
• Strengthening corneal collagen
• Halting disease progression

Advanced Interventions

• Corneal transplants
• Specialised surgical techniques
• Customised treatment plans

Success Rate

• Approximately 70-90% stabilisation
• Significant vision improvement potential
• Slowed disease progression
• Individualised outcomes

Recovery Time

• Corneal cross-linking: 1-2 weeks initial healing
• Full stabilisation: 3-6 months
• Ongoing monitoring
• Gradual vision adaptation

Medications and Care

• Prescription eye drops
• Pain management
• Anti-inflammatory treatments
• Protective eyewear
• Regular follow-up assessments
• Lifestyle modifications