U Education

Eye and vision issues can cause headaches, nausea and make even simple, routine tasks extremely difficult to complete. If you notice changes in your vision or the shape of your cornea, you may be among the 1 in 500 people who suffer from keratoconus. Read on to learn more about the symptoms, causes and new treatment options for this disease.

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disorder that is usually diagnosed during the late teens or early twenties. It causes the cornea of the eye to thin and form a cone-like steepening or bulge. The rate of progression varies between people and can cause vision impairment. The cornea is responsible for refracting most of the light that enters the eye. The abnormal shape of the cornea causes people who suffer from keratoconus to experience distorted vision, light and glare sensitivity and reduced visual acuity.

What are the signs and symptoms of keratoconus?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention from our trained eye doctors at UELC for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Heightened sensitivity to light or glare
• Nearsightedness
• Frequent changes in eyeglasses prescription
• Trouble driving at night
• Halo effect or ghosting around lights at night
• Excessive irritation or eye rubbing

Any changes in vision or eye irritation should be treated as soon as possible. Letting symptoms progress may worsen the condition and make keratoconus treatment more difficult.

What are your treatment options for keratoconus?

Also known as collagen crosslinking or CXL, UltraView XLINKING is the best procedure that can stop the progression of keratoconus. The cornea’s top layer is removed and vitamin drops are administered to the eye to penetrate the cornea. A UV light is then pointed at the patient’s eye for an average of 15-20 minutes. The specialized light causes the links in the collagen fibre of the cornea to increase and stiffen, thus becoming stronger. A bandage contact lens is applied and patients are given a course of antibiotics and eye drops to use. Improvement is usually seen within 3 to 6 months and very few patients may require additional treatment. UltraView XLINKING is performed under local anesthesia and patients do not experience pain.

You may also explore other options for treatment. Corneal transplants are highly effective but also invasive, and are often considered by those suffering from keratoconus as a last resort solution. You may be recommended to opt for a corneal transplant if you have scarring on the corneas or your corneas have become too steep. Many procedures that we perform here at UELC may also be combined with LASIK surgery for vision improvement.

Experiencing Vision Trouble in Vaughan? Find a Keratoconus Specialist

If you notice any early signs or sudden changes in your vision, come visit the professionals at UELC. Our skilled surgeons offer the latest in keratoconus treatments and can help you experience improved vision and comfort. Meet with our team of professionals for a proper diagnosis, to discuss your options and determine your candidacy for UltraView XLINKING.

Schedule a consultation with a UELC surgeon today regarding your keratoconus treatment. To learn more, call us at 416-653-8352.