Today we're delving into a topic that Dr. Babakhan recently discussed with a patient: keratoconus. This condition primarily affects the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of your eye.
In keratoconus, a specific area of your cornea starts to thin. As a result of the internal eye pressure, this thinned-out portion begins to bulge forward. The outcome? Blurred vision and glare. If you've noticed increased light sensitivity, keratoconus might be the culprit.
From my experience, keratoconus generally starts affecting individuals during their puberty years. Unfortunately, it tends to worsen progressively over time. Though it usually affects both eyes, it often impacts one eye more than the other.
Given the recent findings from the Gutenberg Health Study, with a prevalence of keratoconus now estimated to be 1 in 200 among Caucasians, it's now likely that over 650,000 Americans, within just the Caucasian population in the United States, could be affected by keratoconus.
If you've been experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, particularly if they're worsening, don't hesitate to schedule an eye exam. Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of the disease through various treatment options, such as specialty contact lenses or corneal cross-linking.
Remember, we'll be sharing more videos and information about keratoconus, so keep an eye out for those.
Feel free to schedule an eye exam if you're experiencing any visual symptoms or have concerns about keratoconus. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing this condition.