Blurred and distorted vision can sometimes occur for unexpected reasons. Keratoconus is a rare, progressive disease that affects the cornea, which is the clear, transparent layer at the front of the eye. The cornea is responsible for focusing the light that comes into your eye onto the retina for clear, sharp vision. This disease causes the corneal tissue to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape which deflects the light entering the eye and distorts vision. If you suspect you may have this condition, schedule an eye exam with Dr. Chen in Queens today.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown. The disease usually starts in the late teens or twenties and can affect one or both eyes, progressing at a slow pace and slowing or stabilizing after around 10-20 years. It is believed that there is a genetic component since it often runs in families.
New research suggests that there may be a link between keratoconus and oxidative damage, which weakens the cornea. There is also an association between overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and chronic eye irritation.
What Are the Symptoms?
With the gradual change in the shape of the cornea, vision becomes progressively worse. You may experience a myriad of symptoms, including:
- Nearsightedness
- Astigmatism
- Distorted vision (straight lines look wavy)
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity and glare
- Eye redness or swelling
When keratoconus becomes more severe (which usually takes a long time, however, on occasion can happen rather quickly), the cornea can begin to swell and form scar tissue. This scar tissue can result in even further visual distortion and blurred vision.
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
In the early stages of the disease, standard eyeglasses and soft contact lenses will usually correct the nearsightedness and astigmatism you may experience. As the disease progresses, however, glasses and soft contact lenses may no longer correct vision, and soft lenses may become uncomfortable. This is when other forms of vision correction, such as surgery, will be recommended.
Treatments for Keratoconus in Flushing, Queens
If you have distorted vision, we can help. At Advanced Eye Center, we provide medical eye exams and treatment options for addressing keratoconus and other ocular diseases. Connect with us today by filling out and submitting the form below or giving us a call at 718-762-3838.
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