What Are the Early Symptoms of Keratoconus?

At Ridgeview Eye Care, we’re committed to helping our patients recognize the early warning signs of eye conditions that can impact long-term vision. One such condition is keratoconus, a progressive disorder that alters the shape of the cornea and can significantly affect visual clarity.
 

What Is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus occurs when the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone shape. This distortion prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision. The condition often starts during the teenage years or early twenties and can progress over time.
 

What Causes Keratoconus?

While the exact cause of keratoconus isn’t fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Genetics plays a significant role, as individuals with a family history of keratoconus are at a higher risk. Chronic eye rubbing, often due to allergies or irritation, can also weaken the cornea and increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Additionally, certain systemic conditions such as Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and asthma have been associated with a higher incidence of keratoconus.
 

Early Symptoms of Keratoconus

Recognizing the early signs of keratoconus can help prevent severe vision loss. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam:

• Blurred or distorted vision: Vision may appear wavy or shadowed, particularly when looking at lights.

• Frequent changes in glasses prescription: You may find yourself needing new glasses more often than usual.

• Increased sensitivity to light and glare: Especially noticeable when driving at night.

• Difficulty seeing at night: Night vision can become especially compromised as the condition progresses.

• Ghosting or double vision in one eye: Even with corrective lenses, you may notice overlapping images.

Because these symptoms can resemble other common vision issues, only a thorough eye exam using corneal topography and other diagnostic tools can confirm keratoconus.
 

Specialty Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

Standard soft contact lenses are typically ineffective for advanced keratoconus because they cannot conform to the irregular corneal shape. However, several specialty contact lenses are designed specifically for keratoconus patients:

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These hard lenses provide a smooth refractive surface over the misshapen cornea, offering clearer vision.

• Scleral Lenses: Larger than RGP lenses, these rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) and vault over the cornea, offering comfort and stability for more advanced cases.

• Hybrid Lenses: These combine a rigid center with a soft outer ring, providing both clear vision and enhanced comfort.

• Custom Soft Lenses: Specially designed soft lenses for mild to moderate keratoconus may also be effective in early stages.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today

Keratoconus can significantly impact your vision if left undiagnosed, but early detection and proper management can help preserve and even improve your sight. From identifying early symptoms to fitting you with the right specialty contact lenses, Ridgeview Eye Care is here to guide you every step of the way.

If you're noticing changes in your vision, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Ridgeview Eye Care to stay ahead of keratoconus and protect your long-term eye health. Contact our office in Olathe or Lenexa, Kansas, by calling (913) 261-8327 to book an appointment today.