KERATOCONUS

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that weakens and thins the cornea, causing it to bulge outward into a cone shape. This change distorts vision, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, or working on a computer challenging.

While it often starts in the teenage years or early adulthood, early detection and appropriate management are key to preserving vision and slowing the progression of the condition.

If you or a loved one are dealing with keratoconus, Hyderabad offers access to world-class specialists and advanced treatment options tailored to your individual needs.

Among the leading providers, Envision LASIK Centre,Hyderabad  stands out for its expertise, cutting-edge technology, and patient-centered care.

What is keratoconus?

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye, responsible for focusing light onto the retina. However, in keratoconus, the cornea weakens and loses its round shape due to structural changes in its collagen fibers. Instead of being smooth and spherical, it becomes uneven and cone-like. This irregularity distorts vision, leading to blurring, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing clearly at night.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

The symptoms of keratoconus vary depending on the stage of the condition. Common signs include the following:

  1. Blurred or Distorted Vision
     Vision becomes progressively blurry or wavy, especially as the condition advances.

  2. Sensitivity to Light
     Bright lights or glare can be particularly uncomfortable, making it harder to drive at night.

  3. Frequent Changes in Prescription
     Your eyeglass or contact lens prescription may require frequent updates, but even with corrections, clear vision may be challenging to achieve.

  4. Double Vision in One Eye
     You may notice double or ghosted images when looking out of just one eye.

  5. Astigmatism
     An irregular cornea often leads to increased astigmatism, which further distorts vision.

  6. Eye Strain or Discomfort
     Patients may experience strain, especially during activities requiring focused vision.

Causes of Keratoconus

Keratoconus is thought to result from a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and biomechanical issues. Specific risk factors include:

  1. Genetic Factors
     A family history of keratoconus increases the likelihood of developing the condition.

     

  2. Frequent Eye Rubbing
     Constant or aggressive eye rubbing can weaken the corneal tissue and is considered a significant risk factor.

     

  3. Underlying Conditions
     Certain medical conditions, such as Down syndrome, connective tissue disorders, and allergies, are associated with keratoconus.

  4. Oxidative Stress
     Imbalance in the cornea’s ability to manage oxidative damage may contribute to its weakening and deformation.

Progression of Keratoconus

Keratoconus often begins in the late teens or early twenties and progresses over 10-20 years. Early stages may only involve mild vision changes that are manageable with glasses or soft contact lenses. However, as the condition advances, vision may deteriorate significantly, and more advanced treatments might be needed.

The rate of progression varies from person to person, but in many cases, proactive treatment can stabilize the condition, preventing further vision loss.

Treatment Options for Keratoconus

Hyderabad is home to some of the most advanced facilities and experienced ophthalmologists offering a comprehensive range of treatments for keratoconus. One of the leading providers, Envision LASIK Centre, offers a wide spectrum of therapies tailored to individual needs. The goal of treatment is to improve vision, slow disease progression, and, in severe cases, restore corneal functionality.

1. Glasses or Soft Contact Lenses

These are effective in the early stages of keratoconus when irregularity in the cornea is minimal. Glasses help correct mild nearsightedness or astigmatism. However, as the condition progresses, they may no longer provide adequate correction.

2. Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

For moderate keratoconus, RGP lenses offer a better solution. These lenses sit on the cornea’s surface, providing sharper vision by creating a smooth optical surface.

3. Custom and Hybrid Lenses

Hybrid lenses, which combine a hard center with a soft outer ring, offer better comfort without compromising vision quality. Scleral lenses, which rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye), are particularly effective for advanced cases, and Envision LASIK Centre specializes in providing these custom lenses.

4. Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)

A minimally invasive treatment available at Envision LASIK Centre, corneal cross-linking strengthens the corneal tissue, halting the progression of keratoconus. This procedure involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops and exposing the cornea to ultraviolet (UV) light. It is particularly effective in the early and moderate stages of the condition.

5. Intacs

Intacs provides relief for moderate keratoconus by flattening the cornea and improving its shape. At Envision LASIK Centre, highly skilled surgeons perform this procedure with precision, helping to delay or avoid the need for corneal transplants in advanced cases.

6. Corneal Transplants (Keratoplasty)

For severe keratoconus, corneal transplants may be necessary. The surgeons at Envision LASIK Centre specialize in both penetrating keratoplasty (full-thickness corneal transplants) and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (partial transplants), combining advanced techniques with excellent post-operative care.

7. Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL)

For patients who are not candidates for laser-based refractive procedures but need vision correction, Envision LASIK Centre provides implantable contact lenses, offering clearer, stable vision without affecting the cornea.

Why Choose Envision LASIK Centre?

Envision LASIK Centre in Hyderabad has established itself as a trusted provider for keratoconus care. With a team of experienced ophthalmologists, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-focused approach, they deliver high-quality care and personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best outcomes.

⇒Their Key Strengths:

  • Comprehensive Diagnostic Tools
     Envision LASIK Centre uses advanced diagnostics like corneal topography and pachymetry to assess the severity of keratoconus and design tailored treatments.

  • Expertise in Advanced Procedures
     From innovative corneal cross-linking to customized lenses and surgical interventions like Intacs and transplants, their team is skilled in managing all stages of keratoconus.

  • Patient-Centered Care
     Every patient is unique. The specialists at Envision take time to explain the condition, discuss treatment options, and provide compassionate care throughout the process.

  • Commitment to Safety and Precision
     Using cutting-edge technology, they ensure that your treatment is carried out with unparalleled accuracy and safety.

Take Control of Your Vision

Living with keratoconus doesn’t have to mean resigning to poor vision. With innovative treatment options and the expertise of places like Envision LASIK Centre, you can effectively manage the condition and maintain an excellent quality of life. Consult their specialists today to explore your options and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.

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