Does rubbing your eyes cause keratoconus? Today we'll discuss that question. In short, yes, it can. Let's begin by discussing what keratoconus is.

Does rubbing your eyes cause keratoconus?

When it comes to what are the causes of keratoconus, the exact mechanism of action is complex and not entirely known. But we do know that there is a genetic component associated with keratoconus. And it is believed that keratoconus is also related to an automatic breakdown of the collagen structures within the cornea resulting in that cornea to become thinner. The problem with rubbing your eyes is that it can cause microdamage to the collagen in the eye, causing damage to the cornea. When the enzyme tries to repair the corneal tissue, it just gets worse. Thus, it's very important not to rub your eyes because this can cause further damage and thinning of the cornea and can speed up the progression of your keratoconus.

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease of the cornea, which is the front part of your eye. With keratoconus, your cornea becomes increasingly thinner over time, causing it to bulge out and protrude out, resulting in an irregular corneal surface. As a result, your cornea can become scarred and have irregular astigmatism.

An irregular corneal surface can cause symptoms such as redness and swelling. During severe and end-stage keratoconus, certain areas of the cornea can become so thin that they rupture, resulting in pain.

When does keratoconus begin to develop?

In most cases, keratoconus develops between the ages of late teens and early twenties. Over time, the visual symptoms tend to worsen. Therefore, it's really important to catch this disease early on. As a result of earlier diagnosis, we can initiate treatment earlier on, which will then result in a better visual outcome.

Keratoconus: what causes it?

The exact mechanisms that cause Keratoconus are not entirely clear. We do know that there is a genetic component to keratoconus. In addition, it is believed that keratoconus is additionally caused or at the minimum exacerbated by a breakdown of collagen structures within the cornea, causing the cornea to become thinner.