Keratoconus is the name given to the forward tapering of the cornea, which is one of the most important parts of healthy vision. This disorder can cause serious problems if left untreated.
In keratoconus, the shape of the cornea resembles the shape of a cone. In this case, it becomes difficult for the cornea to transmit the image clearly. Astigmatism is also a disorder that occurs due to this corneal shape.
Keratoconus is a problem that usually occurs at a young age. This disorder, which begins in adolescence or in the early 20s, can be treated depending on its progression. Wearing glasses or contact lenses in the early period will help you solve this problem. If a solution is not found early, corneal transplantation may even be required.
Keratoconus is a condition that can generally be treated without surgical intervention. However, not using glasses and contact lenses triggers the progression of the disease, so it is extremely important to be sensitive about this issue. Therefore, it is of great importance to have eye examinations at regular intervals.
What Causes Keratoconus?
Important studies have been conducted on keratoconus in recent years. In line with these studies, some ideas about the causes of keratoconus have been put forward. Accordingly, keratoconus occurs due to the weakening of the corneal tissue and the collagen imbalance within the cornea. An imbalance of enzymes in the cornea causes free radicals to make the cornea more susceptible to oxidative damage.
Genetic reasons are also among the causes of corneal damage, weakening and enzyme imbalance. Some people have a predisposition to this situation.
Keratoconus is a disorder that can sometimes be seen due to external factors. Harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun also cause the structure of the cornea to deteriorate. Excessive eye rubbing, worn lenses and irritation that may occur in the eyes are also among the triggers of keratoconus.
What are the symptoms of keratoconus?
• Increased sensitivity to light.
• Blurred vision
• distorted vision
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions
• Sudden worsening and blurred vision
How is Keratoconus Treated?
Keratoconus treatment varies depending on the progression of the disease. Keratoconus, which is still in its early stages, can provide good vision with the help of glasses and lenses. Many people suffering from astigmatism overcome this disorder with the help of glasses and lenses. However, when keratoconus progresses to more advanced levels, vision cannot be corrected with the help of glasses and lenses. In such cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Cornea Transplantation
Corneal transplantation is the latest method for keratoconus. Thanks to this extremely common method, tens of thousands of people overcome this problem every year.
For cornea transplantation, a donor must first be found. With surgical intervention, the funnel-shaped cornea is removed and a new cornea is placed in its place. Since the cornea does not have a blood bond with the body, it does not need to be from any blood group. Cornea transplantation is usually a successful transplant procedure.
Intra-Corneal Rings
One of the most important alternatives for patients who cannot use contact lenses are rings placed inside the cornea. The purpose of these rings is to correct the shape of the cornea. Thanks to this procedure performed using topical anesthesia, the shape of the cornea can be corrected to some extent and vision is improved. These rings placed on the eye can be removed later upon the patient’s request.
Corneal Cross Linking
With CCL treatment, the bonds between collagen fibers in the cornea are strengthened. Thanks to the Ultraviolet A and B2 vitamins used during the treatment, the structure of the cornea is strengthened.
Studies have shown that Corneal Cross Linking treatment produces very positive results. It has been observed that with CCL treatment, the progression of keratoconus disease is significantly stopped. In this way, the quality of vision increases and the disease regresses.