Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to thin and bulge into a cone shape. This can lead to blurred vision, distorted vision, and increased sensitivity to light.
There is no cure for keratoconus, but there are a number of treatment options available to help manage the condition and improve vision. The best treatment option for you will depend on the severity of your keratoconus and your individual needs.
Eyeglasses and soft contact lenses can be used to correct vision in the early stages of keratoconus. However, as the condition progresses, eyeglasses and soft contact lenses may not be able to provide adequate vision correction.
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are a good option for people with moderate to severe keratoconus. RGP contact lenses are specially designed to fit over the irregular surface of the cornea and provide clear vision.
Scleral contact lenses are another option for people with advanced keratoconus. Scleral contact lenses are larger than RGP contact lenses and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera). This makes them more comfortable to wear and provides better vision correction for people with severe keratoconus.
Corneal cross-linking is a surgical procedure that can help to slow or stop the progression of keratoconus. During corneal cross-linking, riboflavin eye drops are applied to the cornea and then activated with ultraviolet (UV) light. This process strengthens the collagen fibers in the cornea and helps to prevent the cornea from bulging further.
Intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS) are small, plastic rings that can be implanted in the cornea to help flatten it. ICRs are a good option for people with mild to moderate keratoconus who are not getting good vision correction with contact lenses.
Corneal transplant surgery is the most invasive treatment option for keratoconus. However, it may be necessary for people with severe keratoconus that has not responded to other treatments. During corneal transplant surgery, the diseased cornea is removed and replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
The best way to choose the right treatment option for you is to talk to your eye doctor. Your eye doctor will consider the severity of your keratoconus, your age, and your lifestyle when making a recommendation.
Here are some general guidelines for choosing a keratoconus treatment option: