Our services

Keratoconus

A Condition Resulting in Cone Shaped and Irregular Corneas

What Is Keratoconus?

Your cornea is the clear, dome-shaped window at the front of your eye. It focuses light into your eye. Keratoconus is when the cornea thins out and bulges like a cone. Changing the shape of the cornea brings light rays out of focus. As a result, your vision is blurry and distorted, making daily tasks like reading or driving difficult.

Keratoconus often affects both eyes and can lead to very different vision between the two eyes. Symptoms can differ in each eye, and they can change over time.

What Are the Symptoms of Keratoconus?

In its early stages, keratoconus symptoms can include:
  • Mild blurring of vision
  • Slightly distorted vision, where straight lines look bent or wavy
  • Increased sensitivity to light and glare
  • Eye redness or swelling
In later stages, keratoconus symptoms often include:
  • More blurry and distorted vision
  • Increased nearsightedness or astigmatism (when your eye cannot focus as well as it should). As a result, you may need new eyeglass prescriptions often.
  • Not being able to wear contact lenses. They may no longer fit properly and they are uncomfortable.

What Is the Progression of Keratoconus?

Keratoconus usually takes years to go from early to late stage. For some people, though, keratoconus can get worse quickly. The cornea can swell suddenly and start to scar. When the cornea has scar tissue, it loses its smoothness and becomes less clear. As a result, vision grows even more distorted and blurry.

How Is Keratoconus Treated?

In its beginning stages, keratoconus can be treated with glasses or contacts. Artificial tears may also help ease any discomfort. If the condition progresses, a corneal implant may be necessary. Your ophthalmologist will monitor your eyes to make sure the right course of treatment is pursued.
Information

Additional Cornea Services

General Information

Corneal diseases can affect your eyesight and eye health.

Learn More
Corneal Foreign Bodies

Foreign bodies that become lodged within your eye or cornea should be removed right away. Our ophthalmologists will handle the sensitive removal and ensure that all proper medical care is provided to eliminate any future complications.

Learn More
Corneal Dystrophy

Learn about corneal dystrophy treatment and symptoms from Rock Hill Eye Center.

Learn More
Corneal Abrasions

Corneal abrasions are painful and can affect your vision. Get relief with help from the doctors at Rock Hill Eye Center.

Learn More
Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers aren't just painful; they can cause permanent damage to your eye.

Learn More

Please allow 24-48 business hours to be contacted regarding your appointment request. We look forward to seeing you soon.

* If this is a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Have a Question?

Talk to our Staff

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.