If your glasses or contact lenses no longer seem to provide clear vision, and lights appear distorted or blurry at night, you may be experiencing early signs of keratoconus. This eye condition gradually alters the cornea’s shape, leading to blurred and distorted vision. Though it often starts subtly, untreated keratoconus can lead to vision loss or the need for keratoconus surgery over time.
At Rowville Eyecare, we use advanced corneal imaging and comprehensive eye exams to detect keratoconus early. With the proper management, including modern keratoconus contact lenses and preventive eye care, most patients can maintain clear, stable, and comfortable vision for years.
What Is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that affects the shape of the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. Instead of staying round, the cornea becomes thin and bulges forward into a cone-like shape, causing light to scatter as it enters the eye. This results in blurred or distorted vision that cannot always be corrected with eyeglasses or soft contact lenses.
As keratoconus develops, patients often notice increasing glare, difficulty driving at night, or the need for frequent prescription changes. Early detection and tailored keratoconus treatment can slow progression, protect your sight, and reduce the need for advanced keratoconus interventions later on.
Why Does Keratoconus Happen?
Keratoconus develops when the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye) becomes weak and begins to thin and bulge outward.
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but several factors can increase your risk:
- Family History: A strong family history is a major risk factor for keratoconus. Regular check-ups are important if a relative has the condition.
- Eye Rubbing: Repeated rubbing can damage the surface of the eye and worsen thinning. Common in people with allergies or chronic irritation.
- Environmental Factors: High UV light exposure, dust, and wind, common in Rowville, can strain the cornea. Sunglasses and protective eyewear can help prevent damage.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Asthma, eczema, and connective tissue disorders may increase corneal weakness.
- Age and Hormonal Changes: Most cases appear in the late teens to early 20s and may progress for several years.
- Chronic Eye Irritation: Long-term dryness, allergies, or poorly fitted contact lenses can lead to micro-damage on the surface of the eye.
- Phone: 03 9000 0892
- Email: info@rowville-eyecare.com.au
(Do not send personal health information by email.)
Rowville, VIC 3178
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
How to Prevent Risk Associated with Keratoconus
While keratoconus can’t always be prevented, healthy eye habits and early detection can help protect your vision.
Steps to reduce your risk:
- Regular Eye Exams: Track subtle corneal changes early using advanced imaging at Rowville Eyecare.
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: Use lubricating drops or allergy relief instead of rubbing.
- UV Protection: Wear sunglasses outdoors to limit UV exposure.
- Manage Dryness and Irritation: Avoid overwearing contact lenses and treat allergies promptly.
- Family Awareness: If keratoconus runs in your family, book eye exams for you and your children.
- Preventive Care: Early diagnosis and proper vision correction can preserve long-term eye health.
Keratoconus Treatment Options at Rowville Eyecare
At Rowville Eyecare, we provide customised keratoconus treatment to help you maintain clear, comfortable vision.
Treatment options include:
- Glasses or Soft Contact Lenses: Effective for mild distorted vision and early stages.
- RGP or Scleral Lenses: Smooth the corneal surface for sharper corrected vision; ideal contact lenses for keratoconus.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular visits ensure your vision correction remains stable and effective.
Keratoconus FAQs
What are the early signs of keratoconus?
Blurry or distorted vision, glare, and frequent prescription changes are common signs. Early detection allows for timely keratoconus treatment and helps prevent vision loss.
Can keratoconus be cured?
There’s no cure, but treatments such as corneal cross-linking, contact lenses for keratoconus, and keratoconus surgery can stabilise the condition and improve vision.
Are contact lenses safe for people with keratoconus?
Yes. Custom rigid gas permeable contact lenses and scleral lenses safely smooth the surface of the eye to provide clear, stable corrected vision.
Find Relief and Clarity from Keratoconus at Rowville Eyecare
Living with keratoconus doesn’t mean you have to accept blurry or distorted vision. With modern vision correction options, from custom contact lenses to advanced procedures, clear, comfortable sight is achievable.
At Rowville Eyecare, we take the time to understand your eyes, your lifestyle, and your vision goals. Whether you’re managing early symptoms or advanced keratoconus, our experienced team is here to help you protect your vision and confidence.
Closed on Public Holidays