Keratoconus is a disease caused by thinning and sharpening of the transparent layer of the eye, namely the cornea, with progressive myopia and astigmatism. Patients do not learn about the disease, which usually begins in adolescence, until they are 20 years old. It progresses between the ages of 20 and 40 and becomes permanent after the age of 40. The cornea is a very important part of the eye. Light enters the eye through the cornea. It allows you to see clearly by refraction or focusing the rays. With keratoconus, vision deteriorates due to damage to the cornea. Keratoconus can make certain activities difficult, such as driving a car, typing on a computer, watching TV, or reading.
- What are the causes of keratoconus?Ultraviolet rays
- Eye friction
- Environmental factors
- The use of hard contact lenses
- Genetic predisposition
- Chronic eye irritation
Despite the fact that according to the research results, the cause of keratoconus is still not precisely known, genetic predisposition and mechanical injuries play a crucial role in its development.
- Symptoms of the disease are persistent allergies and itchy eyes
- The presence of progressive myopia and astigmatism
- Poor eyesight despite using glasses
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Glare
- Straight lines look curved or wavy.
- Because the cornea protrudes forward, the inserted contact lens does not fit the eye or causes discomfort.
These symptoms indicate a high risk of developing keratoconus. In such cases, it will be useful to be examined by a specialist doctor. As early diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus are of great importance in terms of preventing serious vision problems that may occur in the future.
How is keratoconus treated?Special rigid contact lenses are used in the early stages of the disease. However, contact lenses cannot stop the progression of the disease. The following method is used to stop the progression of the disease:
In cases where the corneal protrusion is increasing and the cornea is gradually thinning, the Corneal Cross–Linking (CCL) procedure is used.
This method is more preferable for young people with more advanced disease and for women before pregnancy.
Corneal crosslinking (CCL) is a treatment method that strengthens collagen and fibrils in the cornea by crosslinking with riboflavin (vitamin B2) and ultraviolet A rays. It is performed under sterile conditions in the operating room. This treatment stops the progression and thinning of the cornea. Vision loss is prevented in almost all patients who have undergone cross-stitching, and at the same time, visual acuity increases in some patients.
What should be considered after keratoconus surgery?There are several important points to consider after keratoconus surgery. Keratoconus is an eye disease characterized by thinning and deformation of the cornea. Surgical procedures such as corneal transplantation or corneal ring can be used as a treatment for keratoconus. Both procedures are performed to restore the normal shape of the eye and correct vision problems. After keratoconus surgery, it is important to pay attention to the following points:
Medication Use: You should continue to use medications according to your doctor's recommendations. These medications may include antibiotics, painkillers, and eye drops.
Use of glasses and contact lenses: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, continue using them according to the doctor's instructions. This will protect your eyes during the healing process and improve your eyesight.
Eye hygiene: In the postoperative period, eye hygiene is very important. It is important to wash your eyes after washing your hands and stay in a hygienic environment. Do not rub your eyes and wash according to the doctor's instructions.
Sports: Your doctor will allow you to exercise after surgery. However, it is important to avoid activities that can damage your eyes while exercising.
Eye examination: After keratoconus surgery, regular eye examinations should be performed. This helps to monitor eye health and monitor postoperative recovery.
The use of sunglasses: The use of sunglasses helps to protect the eyes during the postoperative period. Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses, especially on sunny days.
The recovery process after surgical treatment of keratoconus can vary from person to person. However, following the recommendations of an ophthalmologist can speed up the healing process and keep your eyes healthy.