Keratoconus is an abnormality of the corneal tissue that gets worse over time, the cornea becomes thin and conical in shape. This irregular shape distorts and blurs vision and due to this people with the condition cannot see clearly. Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory corneal ectatic disorder that tends to arise at teenage or early adulthood and tends to progress if not well controlled. Indeed, when diagnosed with keratoconus, many patients start to look for answers to the question whether the disease can be cured. At the present time, there is no permanent treatment for keratoconus. But when the disease is diagnosed in its early stage and appropriate measures are taken, the condition rarely threatens the patient’s vision.
Early-Stage Treatment Options
At the initial stages of development of keratoconus, minor changes in vision can be treated with the help of spectacles or soft contact lenses. These are the initial interventions that physicians prescribe in order to address the condition and enhance vision. However, as the condition worsens, the corneal shape becomes irregular and conventional eyeglasses, or standard soft contact lenses cannot be used.
For many patients, the final option is to consult with specialists and opt for rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses which can provide a better solution by providing a smooth and even surface on the cornea. These lenses assist in improving sight because they fit over the corneal irregularities. For patients with advanced keratoconus, scleral lenses are another solution in this list. These lenses sit on the white of the eye (the sclera) and come right up over the cornea, which makes them better for people with more severe corneal alterations, as they offer better vision and less discomfort.
Corneal Cross-Linking: Slowing the Progression
Keratoconus has no known cure, but one of the best ways through which the condition can be managed is through corneal cross-linking. It is an outpatient procedure and is used to try to build up the corneal tissue and put a stop to the condition. Corneal cross-linking is the process of using UV light and riboflavin drops to make new chemical links between the collagen fibres in the cornea. These new bonds are better for the health of the cornea as they strengthen the cornea and make it less likely to continue to thin and change shape.
Corneal cross-linking is most beneficial when done at the initial stage of the condition, that is keratoconus. This treatment can help to halt the development of the disease thereby eliminating the need for the more severe procedures like corneal transplantation. Although corneal cross-linking does not heal the tissue that was affected by keratoconus, it is one of the most efficient techniques to control the disease and preserve eyesight in the future.
Advanced Treatment: Intacs and Corneal Transplant
In patients with a higher degree of keratoconus and those who cannot use contact lenses or corneal cross-linking, surgical options may be required. Another surgical intervention involves the placement of corneal ring segments otherwise referred to as Intacs. Intacs are tiny, semilunar shaped biocompatible plastic rings which are placed in the cornea through surgery to flatten it and enhance vision. This procedure is relatively simple and can be used to reshape the cone shape of the cornea and thus enhance vision correction.
In the worst cases of keratoconus when the cornea is very thin or has become scarred, the only option is to undergo a corneal transplant. A corneal transplant is the surgical procedure in which the abnormal corneal tissue is removed and replaced by the healthy tissue. This surgery is usually the final option, and no other treatment option is considered before going for this surgery. While corneal transplants are considered to have a very high success rate, the overall healing process may take a few months and there is a risk of graft rejection.
Can You Live with Keratoconus?
Though, keratoconus cannot be treated completely, but the condition can be controlled with proper treatment plan. Most individuals with keratoconus are able to live normal, healthy lives. The main principle of dealing with keratoconus is constant observation and immediate action. When the condition is diagnosed early enough, people can easily lower the possibility of experiencing serious vision impairment.
This means that in order to get the most out of your eye care it is always advised to consult an eye care professional to find out what treatment will be best suited for your condition. Keratoconus is a complex condition, but recent developments in the treatment have led to better management of the illness, such as corneal cross-linking.
Conclusion
Keratoconus cannot be treated, but the condition can be controlled through the right approach and if it is diagnosed early. Have contact lenses for specific types of keratoconus, then there is corneal cross-linking, or Intacs or even corneal transplants to enhance the vision and to stop the progression of the disease. If you are having any symptoms that make you think you may have keratoconus, the best thing to do is to consult a doctor.
To avail the best treatment for keratoconus, you should go to The Eye Foundation. You can also make an appointment today to meet the specialists to get advice on the right course of action regarding your eyes.
