Keratoconus

Keratoconus, often referred to as ‘KC’, is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the typically round dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing the development of a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity of the cornea. This results in the form of ‘static’ in your vision and can cause significant visual impairment.

 

Typically, keratoconus first appears in those who are in their late teens or early twenties, and it may progress for the next 10-20 years before slowing or stabilizing. Each eye may be affected differently. In its early stages, keratoconus can result in:

• Slight blurring of vision
• Distortion of vision
• Increased sensitivity to light

The cornea’s job is to focus most of the light that comes into the eye. Which means that any abnormalities of the cornea, such as keratoconus, can have a significant impact on how you see the world, making even simple tasks such as driving a car or reading a book very difficult.

If left untreated, keratoconus can lead to significant vision loss and, in severe cases, require a corneal transplant. Treatment for this condition consists of corneal cross-linking.

You can find more information about keratoconus from the National Keratoconus Foundation at www.NKCF.org.