CONDITIONS & PROCEDURES

KERATOCONUS

 

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus develops from an irregularly shaped bulging cornea, which progressively worsens and affects vision. The middle layer of the cornea is the thickest layer and is made up of tightly organised collagen. Collagen is a type of protein that ensures the cornea remains robust and flexible and maintains its round shape. A healthy cornea helps redirect light into the eye for you to see optimally. However, keratoconus causes thinning of the cornea, forcing it to bulge abnormally, resembling an unhealthy cone shape.

What are the signs of keratoconus?

Typical signs of keratoconus include the following:

  • Halos
  • Glare
  • Trouble seeing well at night
  • Headaches are linked to eye pain
  • High sensitivity to bright lights
  • Worsening cloudy vision
  • Frequently changing glasses prescription
  • Eye Allergy and eye rubbing

How do you diagnose keratoconus?

Apart from a comprehensive eye examination, Dr Shastry reviews your medical history thoroughly and performs the following diagnostic tests:

  • Corneal topography: a comprehensive diagnostic study that checks for early keratoconus and follows the advancement of the disease. It is a detailed computerised map of the surface curvature of the cornea.
  • Slit-lamp examination: views abnormalities present in the exterior and centre of the cornea.
  • Pachymetry: is a test which measures the thickness of the cornea at various points.

How do you treat keratoconus?

Treatment for keratoconus aims to correct vision, depending on the progression of the disease. For an early stage of keratoconus, Dr Shastry will advise wearing spectacles to treat astigmatism and nearsightedness. However, when the condition advances, it won't be possible to rely on spectacles alone; instead, hard contact lenses should be capable of providing clear vision.

Dr Shastry demonstrates expertise and is highly skilled in corneal collagen cross-linking for an advanced form of keratoconus. An in-office laser treatment is performed to help strengthen the cornea. Utilising an ultraviolet light and activated special vitamin solution applied to the cornea.

FAQ

 

1. How long does it take to apply the ultraviolet light to activate the Vitamin B solution?

It can take 30 minutes.


2. How does corneal collagen cross-linking work?

The solution promotes the formation of new collagen bonds. The solution works by rejuvenating and preserving the shape and strength of the cornea.


3. Can keratoconus cause blindness?

Keratoconus is not known to cause blindness but can cause one to rely on contact lenses or spectacles. Advanced Keratoconus left untreated can cause significantly reduced vision.