Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, causing vision distortion.

What are the symptoms of Keratoconus?

Common symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to light, and frequent changes in prescription glasses.

What causes Keratoconus?

The exact cause is unknown, but factors may include genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and eye rubbing.

How is Keratoconus diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through a comprehensive eye examination, including corneal topography and vision tests.

What treatments are available for Keratoconus?

Treatment options include glasses, contact lenses, corneal cross-linking, and in severe cases, corneal transplants.

Can Keratoconus be prevented?

While there is no known way to prevent Keratoconus, reducing eye rubbing and regular eye check-ups can help monitor changes.

Is Keratoconus hereditary?

Yes, Keratoconus can run in families, indicating a genetic component to the disorder.

When is World Keratoconus Day?

World Keratoconus Day is observed annually on April 10 to raise awareness and educate about the condition.

World Keratoconus Day

Every November 10, World Keratoconus Day shines a light on keratoconus, a progressive eye condition that can impact people worldwide. Celebrated globally, the day is dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and educating people about keratoconus, so that those affected can receive proper care and avoid the complications it can bring. In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of keratoconus, discuss the history and purpose of World Keratoconus Day, explore treatment options, and highlight how awareness and resources can empower those affected.

Understanding Keratoconus

Keratoconus is an eye condition where the cornea begins to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, instead of staying dome-shaped. This irregular shape affects the way light enters the eye and causes distorted vision. The condition often appears in the teenage years or early twenties and can gradually worsen over time. As the cornea becomes more cone-shaped, vision can become more blurry and hard to correct with regular glasses or contact lenses.

People with keratoconus may find it difficult to read, drive, or do daily tasks, especially in low light. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a significant difference in managing the disease.

Common Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus symptoms may vary from person to person, but common signs to watch for include:

Need an Appointment?

Blurry or distorted vision
Increased sensitivity to bright lights or glare
Difficulty seeing at night
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
Double vision in one eye
Halos around lights
Eye irritation or strain

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult our best ophthalmologist at Continental Hospitals.

History of World Keratoconus Day

World Keratoconus Day was established by the National Keratoconus Foundation (NKCF), a program of the Discovery Eye Foundation, to raise awareness and educate the public about keratoconus. The day is marked by activities, resources, and support for patients, families, and medical professionals to improve the quality of life for those affected by keratoconus. Each year, it encourages open discussions about living with the condition and offers a platform for sharing personal stories and advancements in treatments.

Since its inception, World Keratoconus Day has grown in popularity and has become a global event, bringing attention to the importance of early diagnosis, research, and advanced treatment options. By spreading awareness, the day aims to break the stigma and help those with keratoconus live fulfilling lives.

Vision Correction Options for Keratoconus

Treatment options for keratoconus vary depending on the severity and progression of the condition. Here’s an overview of the most common treatment options available today:

Eyeglasses and Soft Contact Lenses
In the early stages of keratoconus, prescription eyeglasses and soft contact lenses can often correct vision by helping to focus light properly on the retina. However, as keratoconus progresses, these options may no longer be sufficient.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
As the condition advances, many patients find that rigid gas permeable lenses (RGP lenses) work better than soft lenses because they provide a more consistent shape to the cornea, helping to improve vision. The hard surface of RGP lenses helps to smooth out the irregularities in the cornea’s shape.

Scleral and Hybrid Lenses
When traditional RGP lenses aren’t comfortable or effective, scleral lenses or hybrid lenses may be recommended. Scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera (white part of the eye) rather than the cornea. Hybrid lenses combine a soft outer ring with a rigid center, providing both comfort and clarity for people with keratoconus.

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a relatively recent procedure that strengthens the corneal tissue to slow or halt the progression of keratoconus. During the procedure, vitamin B2 eye drops are applied to the cornea and activated with ultraviolet light. This treatment helps to bond the fibers within the cornea, preventing further thinning and bulging. Corneal cross-linking is particularly helpful in the early stages and can significantly reduce the likelihood of needing more invasive treatments later on.

Implantable Ring Segments (Intacs)
Intacs are tiny, crescent-shaped devices that can be implanted into the cornea to help flatten its shape. By redistributing the stress on the corneal tissue, Intacs can improve vision and may allow people with keratoconus to wear regular contacts or glasses more comfortably.

Corneal Transplant
In advanced cases where other treatments are not effective, a corneal transplant may be necessary. During this procedure, the damaged cornea is replaced with healthy corneal tissue from a donor. This can restore vision but may require a lengthy recovery period and post-surgical care.

Empowerment Through Awareness

World Keratoconus Day is not only about educating the public; it’s also about empowering patients. Awareness helps people with keratoconus realize that they are not alone and that there are solutions and support systems available to them. Informed patients are more likely to seek early diagnosis, understand their treatment options, and maintain regular check-ups with their eye care providers.

For families, friends, and communities, World Keratoconus Day is an opportunity to learn about the unique needs of individuals with keratoconus and show support. By understanding the impact of the condition on daily life—whether it’s difficulty driving at night or dealing with constant vision changes—loved ones can provide empathy and encouragement, which is essential for mental and emotional well-being.

The Continental Hospitals’ Commitment to Keratoconus Care

At Continental Hospitals, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care and support to individuals affected by keratoconus. Our team of dedicated eye specialists understands the complexities of keratoconus and is equipped with the latest technologies to diagnose and treat this condition effectively. From early detection to advanced treatment options like corneal cross-linking and surgical interventions, we are here to guide patients every step of the way.

We also believe that patient education is an essential part of keratoconus care. Our specialists take the time to explain each treatment option, answer questions, and ensure patients feel empowered to make informed decisions about their eye health. At Continental Hospitals, we’re committed to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care for every patient with keratoconus.

Conclusion: Take the First Step Towards Better Eye Health

Keratoconus can be a challenging condition, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, individuals can lead active, fulfilling lives. World Keratoconus Day serves as an important reminder of the need for greater awareness, support, and empowerment for everyone affected by keratoconus.