Keratoconus is a corneal condition that affects many adults both in the United States and globally. It's a condition where the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye—starts to thin and bulge out like a cone. This causes various visual distortions, such as blurring and glare, and ultimately leads to reduced vision.
For a long time, there was no successful way to halt the worsening of keratoconus. Now, corneal collagen cross-linking has come along, offering a significant breakthrough in treatment.
During this treatment, the cornea is exposed to riboflavin, a form of vitamin B2. Following this, the cornea is then exposed to UV light. This process strengthens or "crosslinks" the collagen fibers within the cornea, making it more rigid.
It's crucial to understand that corneal collagen cross-linking is not a cure for keratoconus. What it does do is halt the progression of the condition, preventing further visual distortions and reductions in vision.
If you've recently been diagnosed with keratoconus or even if it's something you've been managing for a while, it may be time to consult your eye care provider. They can conduct a thorough eye exam and determine if collagen cross-linking is the right option for you.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, corneal collagen cross-linking has been approved by the FDA and has shown promising results in clinical trials. Around 65-70% of patients who undergo the treatment experience a halt in the progression of their keratoconus.
If you're experiencing visual symptoms or have been diagnosed with keratoconus, it's important to consult an eye care specialist as soon as possible. The earlier the condition is identified, the more options you'll have for managing it effectively. Feel free to call us or visit our clinic to learn more about keratoconus and corneal collagen cross-linking. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial steps in maintaining your eye health.