Keratoconus, a condition affecting the cornea, poses challenges to clear vision. It involves a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, impacting daily life. Seeking treatment is crucial not only for improved eyesight but also to prevent further deterioration. As we explore the costs associated with keratoconus treatment in Gurgaon, it’s essential to recognize the significance of addressing this condition. By understanding the financial aspects, individuals can ensure a balance between effective treatment and budget considerations.

Let’s understand the various aspects of keratoconus treatment costs in Gurgaon, breaking down the expenses and offering practical insights for those seeking clarity.

Understanding the Diagnostic Phase

When it comes to tackling keratoconus, the journey often commences with a visit to an ophthalmologist. These eye specialists play a pivotal role in evaluating your eye health and formulating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The Role of Ophthalmologists

Ophthalmologists bring a wealth of expertise to the table, armed with the knowledge and skillset required to assess and diagnose various eye conditions. In the case of keratoconus, their role is paramount in steering the diagnostic phase toward an accurate understanding of your condition.

Diagnostic Tests and Their Significance

The diagnostic process involves a series of tests aimed at comprehensively evaluating the health of your eyes, specifically focusing on the cornea. These tests, including corneal topography, pachymetry, and aberrometry, each serve a unique purpose in unraveling the intricacies of keratoconus. The results provide valuable insights that lay the foundation for an effective keratoconus treatment strategy.

Average Costs for Initial Consultations and Basic Tests

While the costs can vary, a ballpark figure for the initial consultation with an ophthalmologist ranges from ₹500 to ₹2000. This includes the basic tests required for an accurate diagnosis. It’s important to note that these costs might fluctuate based on the healthcare facility and the specific tests deemed necessary for your case.

Ultimately, the diagnostic phase, led by skilled ophthalmologists and supported by crucial tests, forms the bedrock of understanding and addressing keratoconus. It marks the initial step towards clarity in navigating the challenges posed by this condition.

Specialized Tests: Shedding Light on Corneal Health

When looking closely at diagnosing keratoconus, specific tests become crucial in understanding the condition of the cornea. These tests provide detailed information, helping eye specialists tailor effective treatment plans.

Corneal Topography: What It Reveals

Corneal topography is an essential tool that creates a map of the cornea’s surface. It shows the shape and curvature, providing valuable insights into corneal abnormalities associated with keratoconus.

Pachymetry and Its Importance

Pachymetry measures the thickness of the cornea, a key factor in tracking keratoconus progression. Understanding these thickness variations is vital for assessing the severity of the condition.

Aberrometry: Gaining Insights into Vision Aberrations

Aberrometry focuses on identifying vision aberrations, offering detailed insights into irregularities that might affect eyesight. This test assists in developing a nuanced treatment plan to address specific vision issues linked to keratoconus.

Variable Costs for Specialized Tests

The expenses for these specialized tests can vary based on factors like test complexity and technology. On average, corneal topography can cost between ₹1000 to ₹3000, pachymetry ranging from ₹800 to ₹2500, and aberrometry averaging between ₹1200 to ₹3500. Understanding the importance of these tests and their associated costs is crucial for navigating the diagnostic landscape of keratoconus.

Exploring Treatment Options

Various treatment options are available to address keratoconus, each with its own considerations and costs. Let’s delve into these choices to understand the nuances of each.

Contact Lenses: A Common Starting Point

Contact lenses often serve as a practical starting point for managing keratoconus. Different types of lenses, including soft, rigid gas permeable, and hybrid lenses, cater to varying degrees of the condition. The fitting process involves finding the most comfortable and effective lens for your unique eye shape.

The annual costs associated with contact lenses can vary based on the type and frequency of replacement. Generally ranging from ₹5000 to ₹20,000, these costs cover not only the lenses but also fittings and follow-up appointments. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the lenses continue to provide optimal vision correction.

Collagen Cross-Linking: Strengthening the Cornea

Collagen cross-linking is a non-invasive procedure designed to strengthen the cornea. It involves the application of ultraviolet (UV) light and riboflavin drops to induce collagen bonds, stabilizing the corneal structure.

The cost of collagen cross-linking can range from ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per eye. Factors influencing the cost include the specific technology used, the expertise of the medical team, and the facilities provided during the keratoconus treatment.

Intacs Implants: Reshaping the Cornea

Intacs implants offer a surgical approach to reshaping the cornea. This procedure involves the placement of small plastic inserts into the corneal tissue, altering its shape and improving vision.

The estimated cost for Intacs implants ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000 per eye. The actual costs can vary based on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, hospital facilities, and any additional pre- or post-operative care required.

Corneal Transplant: The Last Resort

In advanced cases of keratoconus, a corneal transplant may become necessary. This surgical intervention is considered a last resort when other treatments are insufficient in restoring vision.

The keratoconus surgery cost can vary widely, ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 or more. Factors influencing these costs include the type of transplant, the surgeon’s experience, and the facilities provided by the hospital.

Overall, exploring keratoconus treatment options involves weighing the benefits, costs, and individual considerations. Consulting with eye specialists and understanding the unique aspects of each option can guide individuals toward the most suitable treatment path for their specific situation.

Post-Treatment Follow-ups: Monitoring Progress

After undergoing keratoconus treatment, regular follow-up visits are vital. These appointments ensure ongoing monitoring of progress and early identification of any potential issues. Consistent check-ups contribute to the long-term success of the treatment and overall eye health.

The average costs for follow-up sessions typically range between ₹500 and ₹2000. These costs cover the necessary examinations and assessments to track the effectiveness of the treatment, providing individuals with continued assurance about the health of their eyes. Regular follow-ups play a pivotal role in sustaining the positive outcomes of keratoconus treatment.

Additional Expenses: Unforeseen Costs in Keratoconus Treatment

Apart from the standard costs, unforeseen expenses can arise during keratoconus treatment. These may include medication, unexpected follow-up tests, and transportation for frequent visits. Understanding and preparing for these unexpected financial aspects is crucial for a comprehensive approach to managing overall treatment costs.

By being aware of potential additional charges, individuals can navigate their treatment journey more securely. This foresight contributes to a better-prepared and more informed approach to addressing the financial challenges associated with keratoconus.

Financial Considerations and Insurance Coverage

The financial aspect of keratoconus treatment is a significant concern for many individuals. Checking your health insurance coverage is a crucial step in managing costs. While some policies may provide partial coverage for certain procedures, others may not cover keratoconus treatment at all.

Tips for navigating insurance inquiries include:

1. Confirming specific coverage for keratoconus-related procedures
2. Understanding any pre-authorization requirements
3. Inquiring about out-of-pocket expenses and co-payments
4. Checking for in-network providers to maximize coverage benefits

Conclusion

Summing up, understanding the costs associated with keratoconus treatment in Gurgaon involves considering various factors. From diagnostic tests to specialized treatments and post-treatment follow-ups, the expenses can vary significantly. Consulting with healthcare professionals and insurance providers is crucial to creating a realistic budget and making the right choices about your eye health.

For personalized guidance, consult with Dr. Deepa Gupta, a trusted Gurgaon-based eye specialist. Schedule a consultation today for an assured step towards clearer vision and optimal eye health. Remember, your vision is an investment in your overall well-being, and careful planning ensures that you can navigate the financial aspects of keratoconus treatment with confidence.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the cornea, causing it to become thin and irregularly shaped. This condition can lead to significant visual impairment and discomfort for those affected. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to manage keratoconus, and two of the most common approaches are Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and laser-assisted procedures. In this blog, we will delve into the stages of keratoconus and explore the differences between PRK and other laser-based treatments.

Understanding Keratoconus

Before we dive into the treatment options, it’s essential to understand keratoconus and its stages. Keratoconus typically progresses through several stages:

1. Early Stage:

In the early stages, patients may not even be aware of the condition as their vision remains relatively stable. However, subtle changes in vision, such as astigmatism and nearsightedness, may be present.

2. Moderate Stage: 

As keratoconus advances, patients may experience blurred and distorted vision. Contact lenses or glasses may still be effective in correcting vision at this stage.

3. Advanced Stage: 

In the advanced stage, vision worsens significantly, and traditional corrective measures may become less effective. Patients may experience increased sensitivity to light, halos, and glare.

4. Severe Stage:

The cornea becomes extremely thin and steep in the severe stage, leading to substantial visual impairment. Standard glasses and contact lenses often do not provide adequate vision correction.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is a type of laser eye surgery that is sometimes used to treat keratoconus, particularly in its early to moderate stages. Here’s how PRK works:

1. Preparation:

Before the surgery, the corneal epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea) is removed.

2. Laser Reshaping:

A laser is then used to reshape the cornea to improve its curvature and correct vision problems.

3. Healing:

After the procedure, the epithelium naturally regenerates over a few days to weeks.

PRK is considered a safer option for keratoconus patients than LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) because it doesn’t involve creating a flap in the cornea, which can be risky for weakened corneas.

Laser-Assisted Procedures

Several laser-assisted procedures can be beneficial for keratoconus patients:

1. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL): 

CXL is a non-invasive procedure that strengthens the cornea by increasing collagen bonds. It can help halt the progression of keratoconus.

2. Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS): 

ICRS, also known as corneal implants, are small plastic rings inserted into the cornea to reshape it, improving vision for some keratoconus patients.

3. Topography-Guided LASIK:

In cases where keratoconus is stable, topography-guided LASIK may be considered to correct vision.

4. Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs):

ICLs are an option for advanced keratoconus. These lenses are implanted inside the eye to provide vision correction.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The choice between PRK and other laser-assisted procedures depends on the severity of keratoconus, the patient’s circumstances, and the recommendations of their eye care specialist. PRK is more suitable for early to moderate stages, while advanced cases may require a combination of treatments or alternative procedures like CXL or ICLs.

THE COST OF THE KERATOCONUS TREATMENT

The cost of keratoconus treatment in Delhi, India, can vary depending on the specific treatment chosen, the severity of the condition, the medical facility, and the surgeon’s experience. Here is a general estimate of the cost range for keratoconus treatment options in Delhi:

1. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK):

PRK surgery in Delhi typically costs between ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per eye. This cost may include pre-operative and post-operative care.

2. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL):

The cost of CXL in Delhi can range from ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 per eye, although prices may vary depending on the facility and the type of CXL used.

3. Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS): 

The cost of ICRS insertion in Delhi generally ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 per eye. The actual cost may depend on the type and number of rings used.

4. Topography-Guided LASIK: 

The cost of topography-guided LASIK in Delhi can vary widely, ranging from ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 per eye or more, depending on the surgeon’s fees and the facility.

5. Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs): 

ICLs are a more expensive option, and the cost in Delhi may range from ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000 or more per eye. This typically includes the lens implant and the surgical procedure.

Additionally, it’s essential to inquire about any potential financing options or insurance coverage that may be available to help manage the expenses associated with keratoconus treatment in Delhi.

Conclusion

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Understanding its stages and the available treatment options, such as PRK and other laser-assisted procedures, is important for making apprised decisions about managing the condition.

Consulting with an experienced eye specialist is the first step toward determining the most appropriate treatment plan for an individual’s unique needs and circumstances. With the right approach, many keratoconus patients can achieve improved vision and a better quality of life.

ABOUT US

Dr. Deepa Gupta is a renowned ophthalmologist whose clinic in Gurgaon, Delhi, has earned a stellar reputation for its expertise in treating various eye conditions. One of the clinic’s major areas of specialization is Keratoconus treatment, a condition that affects the cornea and can lead to distorted vision.

Dr. Gupta’s clinic is at the forefront of offering cutting-edge solutions for individuals suffering from Keratoconus, providing hope and improved vision to countless patients.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder characterized by the thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to a distorted and irregularly shaped cornea. This condition can cause severe visual impairment, making it challenging for individuals to carry out their daily activities.

Dr. Deepa Gupta’s clinic is a beacon of hope for those afflicted by this condition, offering a range of advanced treatments to manage and correct Keratoconus.

One of the primary treatment options provided at Dr. Gupta’s clinic is Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL). This minimally invasive procedure involves applying a special solution to the cornea, followed by controlled exposure to ultraviolet light.

This process strengthens the collagen fibers in the cornea, halting the progression of Keratoconus. Corneal Cross-Linking has proven to be highly effective in stabilizing the cornea’s shape and preventing further deterioration, preserving and improving patients’ vision.

Another cutting-edge Keratoconus treatment offered at the clinic is Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS) insertion. These small, implantable rings are placed within the cornea to reshape it, reducing the distortion caused by Keratoconus. This procedure has the potential to significantly improve visual clarity and reduce the reliance on corrective lenses for patients.

For those whose Keratoconus has progressed to an advanced stage, Dr. Gupta’s clinic provides access to advanced surgical options such as corneal transplantation. This procedure involves replacing the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea and restoring vision in cases where other treatments may not be sufficient.

What sets Dr. Deepa Gupta’s clinic apart is not only its state-of-the-art technology and treatment options but also its commitment to personalized care. Dr. Gupta and her team take a patient-centric approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs, and ensuring the best possible outcomes. Patients can expect a warm and supportive environment, where their concerns are heard and addressed throughout their journey to better vision.

Furthermore, the clinic places a strong emphasis on post-treatment care and follow-up, ensuring that patients continue to experience the benefits of their Keratoconus treatments over the long term. Regular check-ups and adjustments are part of the comprehensive care package offered at the clinic.

In conclusion, Dr. Deepa Gupta’s clinic in Gurgaon, Delhi, is a beacon of hope for individuals battling Keratoconus. Their expertise in the field of ophthalmology, coupled with advanced treatment options like Corneal Cross-Linking, ICRS insertion, and corneal transplantation, has transformed the lives of countless patients.

If you or a loved ones are affected by keratoconus, Dr. Deepa Gupta’s clinic stands ready to provide compassionate and effective care.

Have you been diagnosed with Keratoconus or are doubtful of it? Do not worry as this eye disorder can be effectively corrected by various treatment modalities. Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that causes thinning of the cornea (clear dome-shaped outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil) making it cone-shaped and bulging outward. This results in blurring, hazy and distorted vision. Your ophthalmologist will carefully do a detailed check-up, maybe with some diagnostic tests, and prescribe an appropriate treatment suitable as per your Keratoconus condition.

Let us look into the various effective treatment options for Keratoconus.

What are the 3 effective treatments for Keratoconus?

The treatment for Keratoconus depends upon its severity and progression. The treatment options aim to improve and maintain your visual acuity and stop the further change in the shape of your cornea. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. The current treatment options available are:

#1. Eyeglasses and lenses

• Prescription eyeglasses and soft contact lenses: These help to correct your blurry and distorted vision effectively during the early stages. You may need to change them as the corneal shape changes.
• Hard contact lenses: These are rigid eye lenses for treating more advanced Keratoconus. They can provide excellent vision and can be made to fit your corneas.
• Piggyback lenses: There are certain specialized lenses that may be worn instead of hard lenses if they feel too uneasy to wear. ‘Piggybacking’ means wearing a hard lens on top of a soft one to minimize discomfort.
• Hybrid lenses: They are a mix of hard and soft lenses with hard in the center and soft around the outer sides. These types of lenses are helpful if you cannot tolerate hard lenses.
• Scleral lenses: These are useful in advanced stages of Keratoconus when the shape of the cornea has markedly changed. These lenses rest on the sclera instead of the cornea and do not even touch the cornea.

Whichever lenses you use, ensure their fit is regularly checked by ophthalmologists specialized in treating Keratoconus. Proper fit of the lenses is crucial to prevent damage to your cornea.

#2. Corneal collagen crosslinking therapy

This is the latest technique that aids to control the progression of further vision loss by stabilizing the corneal shape at the early stages of the disease. In this, riboflavin eye drops are put to saturate the cornea and then treated with ultraviolet light. This results in cross-linking of cornea and collagen which makes the cornea stiff and prevents its change of shape.

#3. Corneal transplant surgery

When Keratoconus has advanced to a stage when there is extreme thinning of your cornea, corneal scarring, and vision doesn’t improve with any of the lenses, then your ophthalmologist may recommend surgery for a corneal transplant. There are two types of surgical techniques depending on the severity of your condition and the location of your corneal cone bulge:-

• Penetrating Keratoplasty: This is a transplant of the entire cornea. Your doctor will remove the complete cornea and replace it with a donor cornea
• Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty: In this procedure, the cornea is replaced, but the inner lining of the cornea is preserved. This reduces the risk of rejection of the new corneal tissue.

All these options for treating keratoconus are safe and effective. Your ophthalmologist can decide the best suitable procedure for you based on your condition and need.

Do not delay in consulting an ophthalmologist if you experience sudden blurring or distortion of vision, increased sensitivity to light, or frequent need to change glasses.

Takeaway

Dr. Deepa Gupta is considered one of the best ophthalmologists in Delhi NCR because of her exceptional clinical and surgical acumen. She possesses rich experience of more than 13 years in treating different types of eye disorders with simple to highly complex procedures. Dr. Gupta specializes in the treatment of Keratoconus and assures the highest quality of treatment with satisfying results in a safe and comfortable environment. She uses the latest and modern equipment and technology which further enhances the quality of outcomes, reduces the time, and minimizes the risk of complications.

Why wait? Get excellent results with compassion and care at the most affordable cost with Dr. Deepa Gupta at Lal eye care center.

How much does keratoconus treatment cost

Usually, the cornea is dome-shaped. Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the cornea thins out and bulges like a cone. This change in the shape of the cornea brings light rays out of focus, leads to blurry vision, and makes daily tasks like reading or driving difficult. Tiny fibres of protein in your eye called collagen help by holding the cornea in place. When these fibres get weak, they cannot stay in their shape. Your cornea gets more and more cone-shaped. It occurs when you don’t have protective antioxidants in your cornea. Its cells produce harmful byproducts that antioxidants eliminate and protect the collagen fibres. But when levels are low, the collagen weakens, and the cornea bulges. The keratoconus treatment cost depends upon the severity and the type of treatments required. You should book an appointment with an expert doctor to diagnose, monitor, and manage the diseases on time.

The leading cause of Keratoconus 

The cause of Keratoconus is unknown as, in many cases, it develops without any reason. As per studies, many environmental and genetic factors can develop it. Specific reasons for Keratoconus might be hard to understand, but several risk factors are linked. Some are:

• Eye rubbing,
• Sleep apnea
• Ageing
• Chronic eye Inflammation
•  Family history
• Other conditions like Connective tissue disorders, Floppy eyelid syndrome, Retinitis pigmentosa, and Down syndrome.

Symptoms of Keratoconus 

The main symptoms of Keratoconus are:

•  Vision in one or both eyes worsens over time, especially in late adolescence.
•  A person may experience double vision when looking with just one eye, even with glasses.
•  Vision slowly becomes distorted.

Some other symptoms are

• Astigmatism,
• Blurred vision,
• Difficulty seeing in Dim light,
• Distorted vision,
• Double vision,
• Glare,
• Nearsightedness,
• Ring of Discoloration on the Front of the Eye,
• Sensitivity to light,
• Vision Loss.

In some people who have Keratoconus, both eyes are eventually affected.

Diagnose of Keratoconus

To diagnose Keratoconus, your eye specialist will review your medical and family history and conduct an eye exam. They may also prescribe other tests to determine more details regarding the shape of your cornea. Tests to diagnose Keratoconus include

• Pentacam computerised corneal mapping

This is one of the special photographic tests, known as corneal tomography and corneal topography, that is performed and records images to create a detailed shape map of your cornea. It also measures the thickness of your cornea and can often detect early signs of Keratoconus before the disease is visible by slit-lamp examination. The test is performed to produce a detailed description of the shape and power of the cornea.

• Keratometry

It is the corneal curvature measurement done by an expert eye specialist focusing on a circle of light on your cornea. The test measures the reflection and determines your cornea’s basic shape. If you have Keratoconus, then the Images of keratometry will be steep, highly astigmatic, irregular, and appear egg-shaped instead of circular or oval in Keratoconus.

• Eye refraction test

In this test, your eye expert will use specially designed equipment to measure your eyes to check for vision problems. They may ask you to look through a device containing wheels of different lenses to determine which combination gives you the sharpest vision. Some doctors may also use the hand-held instrument known as a retinoscope to check your eyes.

• Slit lamp examination 

The test is done by an expert doctor that directs a vertical beam of light on the surface of your eye and uses a low-powered microscope to view your eye and to determine the cause. They evaluate the shape of your cornea and look for other potential issues in your eye.

Consequences of untreated Keratoconus?

The Keratoconus can permanently lead to total vision loss if left untreated and ignored. The changes in the cornea make it difficult for the eye to focus with or without eyeglasses or standard soft contact lenses. This eye condition can be dangerous if laser vision correction surgery is performed on the eye because it can worsen the condition.

Treatment of Keratoconus 

There are many methods for treating Keratoconus, and the keratoconus treatment cost depends on the severity of the condition and the required treatment. The early stage of the condition can be treated with regular eyeglasses or soft contact lenses, but when the condition worsens at later stages, it may need other treatment types. Some patients can also need surgery if they have an advanced stage of the condition and do not have proper sight, even with glasses or contact lenses.

Treatment of Keratoconus at Lall Eyecare

Lall eye care has a renowned doctor Dr Deepa Gupta, who has the expertise and experience to treat Keratoconus. It is a condition in which the cornea develops a cone-shaped bulge that is properly bilateral and asymmetrical and affects both eyes. The clinic is among the best, offering highly customised eye care solutions. Dr Deepa Gupta provides many treatment procedures to treat Keratoconus. After diagnosing the condition based on the findings, she chooses the best treatment option for you. The treatment options can only be decided after the proper diagnosis by the top ophthalmologist . they can treat the condition with

• Eyeglasses and contact lenses 

If your Keratoconus is diagnosed at an early stage and the progression is mild, it can be improved using eyeglasses and contact lenses. There are many types of lenses available to improve vision.

• Hard gas permeable lens

If your condition progresses, an expert doctor will recommend a hard gas permeable lens, a hard contact lens that helps retain the spherical shape back.

Intacs corneal rings

This treatment is the recent standard approach for keratoconus therapy. The inserts are inserted in the corneal stroma, leading to a flatter cornea and more excellent vision.

• Corneal collagen crosslinking 

It is a method that comprises the use of rich eye drops. During the process, the doctor first saturated these eye drops and then treated them with UV radiation.

• Corneal transplant 

This surgery is done at advanced stages of corneal damage in which contact lens therapies and prescription lenses are useless. The keratoconus surgery cost depends on various factors. At Lall, eye care keratoconus surgery is available at the best and most affordable cost.

At Lall eye care, the expert performs C3R and CXL eye surgery, which doesn’t correct refractive errors in your eyes. It assists in maintaining the current vision level and prevents it from degrading. This eye surgery is stable and less invasive. Dr Deepa Gupta, an expert doctor expertise in crosslinking surgery and makes it one of the most reputed clinics for Keratoplasty.

What is Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a dynamic condition characterized by diminishing the cornea that causes it to lose its symmetrical arch shape. It causes the cornea (the clear surface on the front of the eye) to lean continuously and bulge into a cone shape. The cone-formed cornea further leads to nearsightedness( myopia) and astigmatism. It results in blurry and distorted vision.

Causes of Keratoconus

No predisposing factor is yet known for causing Keratoconus. It is believed that both hereditary and environmental factors contribute to its development. Some of the causative agents can be:

• Family History: It is believed that some individuals with Keratoconus may have genes that predispose them to develop the condition if specific environmental conditions are present.
• Underlying illnesses: There may be a direct cause and effect relationship between certain underlying illnesses and Keratoconus, although this has not been proven. These conditions include Leber congenital amaurosis, Marfan syndrome, sleep apnea, asthma, and a few connective tissue diseases such as brittle cornea syndrome and Down syndrome.

• Environment-related Factors: Wearing contact lenses, excessive eye rubbing, and Chronic eye inflammation caused by asthma, allergies, etc., are some of the environmental risk factors that might lead to the development of Keratoconus.

Keratoconus Symptoms

Keratoconus Signs and symptoms are not exhibited early. The absence of symptoms in the early stages is normal for people suffering with keratoconus. As the problem worsens, your cornea’s asymmetry may cause mild to severe vision distortion and loss of vision. 

Some of the common visible signs of keratoconus symptoms include

• Hazy, misaligned, or deteriorating vision 
• Heightened sensitivity to brightness and light
• Driving issues at night, including haloes or streaks around bright lights
• Frequently changing prescription for glasses 
• Monocular diplopia, or double vision in both eyes
• Headaches or itchy eyes
• Short-sightedness (myopia)
• Wounds on the cornea
• The corneal tissue thinning

Stages of Keratoconus

Keratoconus has different stages based on the worsening health of the eye. The three essential stages of Keratoconus are:

• Early/Mild: Keratoconus might not exhibit any symptoms in the early stages. Glasses or contact lenses may be recommended for astigmatism and short-sightedness.
• Moderate: At this point, your cornea’s shape and possible corneal thinning changes are visible. Cross-linking was frequently used to stop the progression of Keratoconus. It may be used with laser treatment to enhance vision and lessen or regularise astigmatism. Your scans and the condition of your eyes determine whether you are a candidate for keratoconus treatment.

Advanced: At this most advanced stage, You’ll probably have significant corneal scarring and thinning. Cross-linking development can help to treat Keratoconus using corneal ring segments and corneal transplants. 

Diagnosing Keratoconus

As early stages of keratoconus condition have no symptoms, we frequently diagnose Keratoconus during an evaluation for laser vision correction. We will screen for Keratoconus if you have a diagnosis of astigmatism that is quickly changing. An eye specialist might evaluate your eyes and symptoms during your consultation. They might also discuss risk factors, including rubbing your eyes and Keratoconus in the family.

Using AI-powered technology, Corneal topography scans offer a complete examination of your cornea’s structure, which is the most accurate way to diagnose Keratoconus.

Keratoconus Treatment

The various options are available for the keratoconus treatment based on the Detroit conditions. Some of the commonly used line of Keratoconus treatment are: 

• Glass or soft lens: The early stages of Keratoconus can be improved with glasses or soft contact lenses. As the condition worsens, special hard contacts (rigid gas permeable contacts) may be needed. 
• Corneal Transplant: When glasses or contact lenses can no longer enhance eyesight due to advanced Keratoconus, Keratoconus Eye surgery is recommended. A corneal transplant is a type of Keratoconus Surgery. During a corneal transplant, the damaged portion of the cornea is removed and replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
• Cross-Linking: A more recent therapy that slows or stops keratoconus progression is collagen cross-linking. To strengthen the collagen fibers in the cornea, riboflavin (vitamin B12) drops and UV radiation is applied to the cornea. Cross-linking doesn’t cure keratoconus-related vision loss, but it prevents further loss.
• Keratoconus Laser treatment: Laser surgery is a solution when treating fruste and advanced Keratoconus. If the keratoconus apex has scars or nodules, keratoconus laser treatment is advised. In this situation, a keratoconus laser can be beneficial since it can flatten and regularise the CONUS. It enhances vision and ensures a greater contact lens tolerance.
• Keratoconus Eye Surgery: Due to pain, significant corneal thinning, or scarring, some keratoconus patients have trouble wearing contact lenses. If glasses cannot correct your vision,  Keratoconus eye surgery may be suggested. Keratoplasty and Intracorneal ring segments are two commonly available surgeries.

Takeaway

As Keratoconus progresses, it may cause corneal thinning, scarring, and a severe loss of vision. You have the highest chance of reducing long-term impairments to your eyesight by getting a proper diagnosis and treatment for Keratoconus as soon as possible. 

If you are exhibiting keratoconus symptoms, contact us. Using AI-powered technologies, our knowledgeable specialists identify Keratoconus. To schedule a keratoconus assessment and testing, contact one of our experts and schedule a consultation. We provide a well-defined opinion service to relieve your mind if you are concerned that another eye doctor might have overlooked your keratoconus symptoms.