Kerataconus

Kerataconus is a bulging of the cornea and occurs in approximately 100,000-150,000 people in the United States.

Symptoms

• Visual distortion with or without eyeglasses
• Standard contact lenses do not fit well
• Approximately 40-50% of Kerataconus patients have allergies. Although allergies may be a contributing factor to having Kerataconus, no studies have confirmed this theory.
• Magnesium deficiencies are linked to Kerataconus. Alcoholism, pregnancy, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, diuretics and stress can lead to magnesium deficiency. Low magnesium can cause a thinning of elastic membranes, including the cornea.
• Genetic disposition

Conventional treatment

Gas permeable contact lenses, fitted by a contact lens specialist, may be used in treatment. If the case of Kerataconus is severe, corneal transplant may be recommended.