There are procedures to slow down the disease’s progression, like corneal crosslinking and intracorneal ring segments. However, these won't necessarily improve your vision.
The best way to improve vision for keratoconus patients is to use specialty hard contact lenses. Here are your options:
Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses (RGP)
Rigid Gas Permeable lenses are often the first choice for keratoconus patients due to their excellent optical properties. They work by sitting on the cornea and creating a new, regular front surface for light to pass through. One of their significant advantages is that they are highly oxygen-permeable, which is essential for corneal health. This permeability can help reduce the risk of eye infections and offer increased comfort during extended wear.
Additionally, RGP lenses are durable and may last for a couple of years if properly cared for, making them cost-effective in the long run. However, some patients may find it takes time to adapt to the hard texture of the lens.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses offer a "best of both worlds" approach. They have a rigid, gas-permeable center that corrects vision distortions caused by keratoconus, just like RGP lenses. Surrounding this rigid center is a soft lens "skirt," which provides comfort and eases the adaptation period for those new to hard lenses.
These lenses are particularly useful for patients who have trouble keeping RGP lenses centered on their eyes or find them uncomfortable. The soft skirt helps keep the lens in place while maintaining a high level of comfort. However, they may require more frequent replacement than RGP lenses, which could make them slightly more expensive over time.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses have gained popularity for treating more advanced cases of keratoconus. Unlike standard contact lenses, these large-diameter lenses rest on the sclera and vault entirely over the cornea. The space between the cornea and the lens is filled with a saline solution, which can provide a soothing effect and eliminate distortions.
Because they don't touch the cornea, scleral lenses can be more comfortable for people with sensitive or irregular corneas. They are also less likely to dislodge from the eye compared to smaller lenses, making them a good choice for active individuals or those with severe keratoconus.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that affects the cornea, the front part of your eye. In this condition, the cornea thins over time and starts to bulge outward, forming a cone-like shape. Unlike a healthy, round cornea, a keratoconic cornea has an irregular surface. This leads to problems like irregular astigmatism and can even cause scarring.
Symptoms of Keratoconus
If you have keratoconus, you may experience a range of symptoms such as:
- Blurred vision
- Vision distortions
- Shadowing around letters and objects
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Eye redness or swelling
- Eye pain in severe cases
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but there's a known genetic component. It's also believed to be related to enzymatic breakdown in the corneal structure, leading to thinning of the cornea.
Making the Right Choice: Schedule an Eye Exam
The most effective treatment option varies from person to person. Therefore, it's crucial to schedule a comprehensive eye examination and a specific contact lens evaluation. This will help us determine the best course of action tailored for you.
Conclusion
Keratoconus can significantly impact your quality of life, but various treatment options can help manage the condition effectively. Specialty hard contact lenses like rigid gas permeable, hybrid, and scleral lenses are particularly effective in improving vision for those with keratoconus. Your eye care professional can guide you through these options to find the best fit for your condition.
If you're experiencing any symptoms or believe you could benefit from a lens evaluation for keratoconus, don't hesitate to schedule an eye exam with us. Your vision is our priority.
