Keratoconus Treatment Edison
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that can affect one or both eyes. It changes the shape of the cornea, thinning it from its normal round shape to a more bulging, conical shape. The result is substantially distorted vision, including double images, streaking, and light sensitivity.
At Patel Eye Associates, our Edison, NJ ophthalmologists have received extensive training and have years of experience in diagnosing keratoconus. We can pick up on the warning signs in their early stages so that you can receive the treatment you need before the condition becomes serious.
Keratoconus Symptoms
Because of its slow progression, detection of keratoconus can be difficult. In the presence of another disorder such as Down syndrome, keratoconus can develop more rapidly. As the disease progresses and the cornea becomes more elongated, nearsightedness and irregular astigmatism affect the ability to drive or read. Often, keratoconus will result in very distorted and blurred vision, accompanied by glare and light sensitivity.
Keratoconus is most often diagnosed in adolescents and those in their early 20s. Those who develop this eye disorder may first notice something is different when their eye care practitioner recommends frequent changes in a prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
Keratoconus Causes
New research seems to indicate that keratoconus may stem from an enzymatic imbalance within the cornea, the thin membrane covering the eye. The cornea becomes more vulnerable to oxidative damage from free radicals, eventually developing the weakening and bulging that are hallmarks of this disorder. Some researchers believe genetics plays a part, as it has been observed to affect multiple family members. Other causes may include:
- Overexposure to ultraviolet rays
- Wearing contact lenses improperly
- Excessive eye rubbing
- Chronic eye irritations
Keratoconus Treatment
Glasses or contact lenses may be all the treatments you need for mild cases of keratoconus. In later stages, more aggressive treatment can protect your vision.
We offer SynergEyes® hybrid contact lenses for patients with keratoconus. Rigid, gas-permeable (“hard”) lenses are uncomfortable, and soft lenses don’t provide optimal vision. SynergEyes® hybrid contact lenses offer all-day comfort. The “breathable” center ensures healthy eyes, providing crisp, clear vision, even at night.
Along with hybrid contact lenses, possible treatments include:
- Gas Permeable Contact Lenses
- Soft and GP Lens Combination
- Scleral Lenses
- Intacs
- Corneal Cross-Linking
- Coping With Keratoconus
Patients who cannot tolerate certain treatments or who do not respond effectively may require a corneal transplant. Please contact our ophthalmologists in Edison today to schedule your keratoconus consultation. Patel Eye Associates serves clients in New Brunswick, Edison and Middlesex County, New Jersey.
Questions about Keratoconus
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that may affect one or both eyes. It changes the shape of the cornea from a normal round shape to one that is more elongated and conical. This altered shape causes visual distortions, including double images, streaking, and light sensitivity.
What causes Keratoconus?
An enzymatic imbalance within the cornea may cause the condition, although ophthalmologists don’t know for sure. The belief is that the cornea becomes more vulnerable to oxidative damage from free radicals. The result is a cornea that is weak and bulges. Genetics may be a factor, as doctors have observed keratoconus occurring in multiple family members. Additionally, overexposure to ultraviolet rays, improper contact lens wear, excessive eye rubbing, and chronic eye irritations may be potential causes.
What are the signs and symptoms of Keratoconus?
Early symptoms of keratoconus include a long, conical corneal shape, increased nearsightedness or irregular astigmatism, and progressive, pronounced changes to your vision prescription.
How is Keratoconus treated in Edison?
Mild cases of keratoconus may be effectively treated with glasses or contact lenses. In later stages, treatment options are aimed at providing adequate vision correction and eye protection. Treatment options include:
- Gas permeable (GP) contact lenses
- Soft and GP lens combinations
- Internal or surgical options such as corneal inserts or corneal collagen cross-links
- Corneal transplants
At Patel Eye Associates, we generally recommend SynergEyes® hybrid contact lenses for our keratoconus patients. These lenses provide you with greater comfort than other types of contact lenses.
Why might Keratoconus require a corneal transplant?
For those that cannot tolerate rigid lenses or those for whom corrective therapies no longer work, a corneal transplant or Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) may be the only way to correct your condition.
How Much Does Keratoconus Treatment Cost?
The cost of Keratoconus Treatment can be discussed during your consultation at Patel Eye Associates in Edison. We offer a variety of payment options, including financing options using CareCredit.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about Keratoconus Treatment, please contact our eye surgeons in NJ at Patel Eye Associates, serving New Brunswick, Edison and Middlesex, New Jersey.
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