Keratoconus

Specialized treatment for keratoconus

BayCare Clinic Eye Specialists diagnoses and treats keratoconus, a progressive thinning of the cornea
Keratoconus occurs when the middle layer of the cornea thins and bulges outward. This abnormal curvature causes distorted vision, including astigmatism and nearsightedness. It affects both eyes.

Keratoconus typically occurs in people who are in their teens or 20s.

What are the symptoms of keratoconus?

Keratoconus symptoms include:

• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
• Itchy eyes
• Blurred or distorted vision
• Sudden worsening or clouding of vision
• Double vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Night vision problems, including glare or halos around lights

How is keratoconus treated?

In the early stages of keratoconus, people can correct their vision with glasses. As keratoconus worsens, specially fitted contact lenses are prescribed to reduce distortion and improve vision.

In most cases, the cornea will eventually stabilize.

If the cornea does not stabilize, a corneal transplant may be needed. Corneal transplants have proven effective for many people with advanced keratoconus but are not a cure. The condition will persist and may affect the transplant.