At Cornea & Cataract Consultants in Nashville, TN, we treat various eye conditions, including keratoconus. If you have been frustrated with your previous treatment or want more clarity on treating the condition, we are here to help. Learn more about frequently asked questions about the condition below.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive condition characterized by a bulging and cone-shaped cornea. The cornea is responsible for bending and focusing on the light so you can see clearly. However, patients with keratoconus have light bend incorrectly because of the bulging cornea.
What are the Symptoms of Keratoconus?
There are many symptoms of keratoconus, which include:
- Blurry and distorted vision
- Double vision
- Halos at night
- Sensitivity to light
- streaks or lines when viewing bright lights
Any concerning symptoms should be addressed by an optometrist from our team immediately. We can do a keratoconus screening exam to check for the condition.
What Causes Keratoconus?
There are no clear-cut causes of keratoconus. However, it usually develops from weakened collagen fibers in the eyes. Weakened eye collagen can cause the cornea to lose shape and cause bulging of the eyes. It's also helpful to avoid frequent rubbing of the eyes that could lead to the development of the condition.
How is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
Various types of eye tests could diagnose keratoconus. They include:
- Eye refraction to analyze the acuity of the eye
- Slit-lamp exam where a vertical beam of light is used to analyze the eye's surface.
- Corneal mapping is more advanced testing to map the shape of the cornea.
- Pachymetry to test the thickness of the cornea.
We will evaluate your condition and assess the best treatment plan for you.
How do You Treat Keratoconus?
There are several treatment options for keratoconus, depending on the severity and type. They include:
- Standard eyeglasses for mild forms
- Standard and custom soft contacts
- Hybrid lenses
- Scleral contacts
We can match you with different treatments to improve your eyesight.
Can you Stop Keratoconus from Getting Worse?
Early detection of the disease is crucial. You may also be a good candidate for corneal cross-linking to stop the progression.
Keratoconus Treatment in Nashville, TN
The professionals at the Cornea & Cataract Consultants are to address all of your eye care needs. We have significant experience in treating various eye conditions including keratoconus. Call us today at (615) 320-7200 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.
