Discovering that you or your loved one's vision is under threat can be overwhelming. You can be overcome with emotions, not knowing where to start. Dr. Kamer at Wilkins' Opticians in Spartanburg treats a wide variety of eye health conditions, including keratoconus.

What Is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a rare eye condition that affects people between 10 and 25 years old, but it may progress for 10 to 20 years before stabilizing or slowing down. Your cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. When keratoconus (popularly known as KC) begins to develop, your cornea thins out and protrudes like a cone. When your cornea's shape is altered, your focus becomes distorted, making tasks like reading or driving difficult. KC affects both eyes, although one eye often suffers the brunt more than the other.

The Symptoms of Keratoconus

KC's symptoms change as the condition progresses. However, these symptoms are typical from the onset of the disease:

• Blurred vision
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
• Distorted vision
• Increased light sensitivity
• Increased worsening or clouding of vision

Since these symptoms mimic other eye conditions, it is essential to see an optometrist for an accurate diagnosis.

Who Is Affected by Keratoconus?

This progressive eye disorder affects both genders. Furthermore, the condition affects all ethnic groups, but some studies show a higher prevalence in the Asian community. While genetics are heavily linked to KC, certain environmental factors like eye rubbing can increase KC's occurrence.

Treating Keratoconus

Living with KC can be challenging, especially when the symptoms are at their peak. That said, seeking treatment options to correct your distorted vision can alleviate some of the symptoms. Common KC treatment options include:

• Eyeglasses: For mild symptoms (early stages of the disorder). Specialty soft contact lenses are appropriate for severe cases.
• Intacs: These are micro-thin corneal implants placed in the affected cornea, intending to flatten and sharpen the cornea to reduce distortion.
• Corneal cross-linking: This is a minimally invasive procedure that combines UV light and riboflavin. The goal of the procedure is to toughen the cornea to deter the progression of the bulging.
• Cornea transplant surgery: When the cornea becomes dangerously thin or other treatments are not working, a cornea transplant is the only option.

Get Testing and Treatment for Keratoconus in Spartanburg, SC

Many eye conditions, including keratoconus, are treatable when diagnosed early. Dr. Kamer at Wilkins' Opticians provides quality eye care for residents in and around Spartanburg. Call our team today at (864) 585-2249 to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrist.