Understanding Keratoconus and its role of early Diagnosis - Nexus Eye Care

1. UNDERSTANDING KERATOCONUS AND ITS ROLE OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS Keratoconus is an under diagnosed and progressive eye disease. If you are experiencing vision changes and have symptoms of keratoconus, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to get screened. Early diagnosis is critical, as your vision may continue to worsen. What is Keratoconus? Keratoconus is an eye condition where the front part of your eye, called the cornea, becomes thin and starts to bulge outward like a cone. This change in shape can lead to blurry vision and increased sensitivity to light and glare. It typically affects both eyes. Who Can Be Affected By KERATOCONUS? The disease is also found in all ETHNIC GROUPS with some studies showing higher incidence rates among Asian, Black, and Hispanic populations Research shows that an estimated 5-30% of people with Down Syndrome are also affected by keratoconus Keratoconus can AFFECT ANYONE although some studies have shown a higher rate in males. SYMPTOMS OF KERATOCONUS Family History of Keratoconus Frequent Headaches Excessive Eye Rubbing Vision That Cannot Be Fully Corrected With Glasses or Difficulty Seeing at Night Frequent Prescription Changes The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but there are several factors that may be linked to it. These include: Causes of Keratoconus 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Eye rubbing Age Race Family history Medical conditions Inflammation While these factors may play a role, the exact cause and interaction between them are still being studied. Keratoconus Treatments Prescription glasses: These are specially designed glasses that can help correct your vision and provide clearer eyesight. Corneal ring segments: These are small, clear plastic rings that are placed in the cornea to help flatten its shape, improving vision. Contact lenses: Special contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses, can be used to improve vision and provide better corneal support. Corneal collagen cross-linking: This is a procedure that strengthens the cornea using a combination of riboflavin eye drops and ultraviolet light. It can help stabilise the cornea and prevent further bulging. Nexus Eye Care -Blacktown 101D Level 1, 130 Main Street Blacktown NSW 2148 02 9672 3055 reception@nexusblacktown.com.au Fax 02 9621 5455 Nexus Eye Care Norwest Norwest Business Park Suite 310, 4 Columbia Court Norwest NSW 2153 02 9680 9100 reception@nexuseyecare.com.au Fax 02 9680 9300