Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea, the clear front window of the eye, gradually thins and bulges forward into a cone shape. This irregular shape bends light unevenly, causing blurred and distorted vision and an increasing, irregular astigmatism.<\/p>\n
Keratoconus usually starts in the teens or twenties. Eye rubbing and eye allergy are linked to its progression, and it can run in families. Early diagnosis matters, because treatment can slow or stop the condition from getting worse.<\/p>\n
Diagnosis relies on corneal topography or tomography scans, which map the shape and thickness of the cornea. A single scan can show the pattern of keratoconus, and repeated scans over time show whether it is progressing. This information decides whether treatment is needed now and which option suits you.<\/p>\n
Treatment is matched to the stage of the disease and whether it is progressing. Your doctor may combine or stage treatments.<\/p>\n
Glasses may be enough in early stages. As the cornea becomes more irregular, rigid gas permeable (RGP) and scleral lenses can improve vision for many people by creating a smooth optical surface. RGP and scleral lens fitting is available at the clinic, based on your corneal measurements.<\/p>\n
Cross-linking uses riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and controlled ultraviolet light to strengthen the bonds between collagen fibres in the cornea. Its aim is to slow or stop progression, not to restore normal vision. It is usually recommended when keratoconus is shown to be progressing.<\/p>\n
During the procedure the eye is numbed, the surface layer is usually removed, riboflavin drops are applied, and the cornea is exposed to ultraviolet light. It usually takes under an hour.<\/p>\n
These are small, thin arcs placed inside the cornea to flatten and regularise its shape. They may improve vision and help contact lens tolerance in suitable eyes.<\/p>\n
For advanced keratoconus or corneal scarring, a partial or full-thickness corneal transplant may be considered.<\/p>\n
Long-term care matters as much as the procedure: stop rubbing your eyes, treat any eye allergy, and keep up regular scans for years so that the cornea can be confirmed stable.<\/p>\n
Keratoconus diagnosis and treatment, including cross-linking, intracorneal rings and corneal transplantation, are led by Dr. Omar Khaled Al-Duwailah<\/strong>, consultant ophthalmologist specialising in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery, with a fellowship in cornea and refractive surgery.<\/p>\n No treatment returns the cornea to a completely normal shape. Cross-linking aims to stop progression, and other treatments improve vision. Many people keep good functional vision with the right care.<\/p>\n Its main purpose is to stabilise the cornea. Some people notice a small improvement, but most still need glasses or contact lenses.<\/p>\n LASIK is generally not suitable for eyes with keratoconus, because it can weaken the cornea further. Your doctor will discuss other options based on your scans.<\/p>\n Keratoconus can run in families, so a screening scan for close relatives, especially teenagers, is reasonable. Discuss it with your doctor.<\/p>\n Rubbing is linked to progression of keratoconus. Stopping it, and treating the itch from allergy, is an important part of protecting the cornea.<\/p>\nFrequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
Can keratoconus be cured?<\/h3>\n
Will cross-linking improve my vision?<\/h3>\n
Can I have LASIK if I have keratoconus?<\/h3>\n
Should my children or siblings be checked?<\/h3>\n
Why is eye rubbing so important?<\/h3>\n