Keratoconus can be a challenging condition, but with early detection and the right care, most people can protect their vision and continue living full, active lives. Raising awareness and improving access to treatment are key to helping those affected. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with keratoconus, the team at Totowa Eyecare in Totowa, New Jersey is here to help.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus causes the cornea—the transparent layer at the front of the eye—to weaken and thin over time. As it becomes thinner, the cornea begins to bulge outward into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape can lead to distorted vision, irregular astigmatism, and in some cases, painless corneal scarring. The condition often begins in the teenage years but can appear earlier, typically progressing for 10–20 years before stabilizing.
How Keratoconus Can Affect Daily Life
With proper management, people with keratoconus can maintain a good quality of life. Common symptoms include blurry or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to glare and light, frequent prescription changes, and reliance on rigid contact lenses for clear sight. Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor changes and adjust treatment as needed.
Keratoconus Management and Treatment Options
Early diagnosis and personalized treatment are essential to slow progression and prevent complications. In the early stages, vision may be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. As the cornea changes shape, rigid gas-permeable lenses often become necessary for clearer vision. When contact lenses are no longer sufficient, your Dr. Rasraj Rana may recommend advanced treatments such as:
- Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL): Riboflavin eye drops are applied and activated with UV light to strengthen collagen fibers in the cornea.
- Mini Asymmetric Radial Keratotomy: Tiny incisions reshape the cornea to improve vision once healed.
- Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments: Small implants placed in the cornea to provide added support and improve shape.
- Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty): Recommended when the cornea is too thin or damaged for other treatments. This surgical graft replaces the affected corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue.
At Totowa Eyecare, we will assess your corneal health, explain your options, and create a customized treatment plan to protect your vision.
Get Expert Keratoconus Care in Totowa, New Jersey
If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus or are experiencing changes in your vision, don’t wait to seek care. The sooner the condition is identified and managed, the better the outcome for your sight. Call Totowa Eyecare at 973-942-4221 or request an https://www.4patientcare.ws/wsv3pro/web/webschedulerv3.aspx?SessionID=19734095&Gcount=0 online to schedule your keratoconus consultation today.