Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the shape and structure of the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. Instead of maintaining a round shape, the cornea gradually becomes thinner and bulges outward like a cone. This change causes blurred or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light, and in severe cases, even significant vision loss.
At Nayana Eye Care, Kakinada, we specialize in the diagnosis and advanced management of keratoconus using modern diagnostic tools and personalized treatment strategies to help preserve your vision and quality of life.
What Causes Keratoconus?
Although the exact cause of keratoconus is still unclear, a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors may play a role. These include:
- Frequent or vigorous eye rubbing
- Poorly fitted contact lenses
- Family history of keratoconus
- Chronic eye allergies or inflammation
- Previous eye injuries or surgeries
- Congenital eye conditions or syndromes like Down Syndrome
- Weakened collagen in the cornea
Common Symptoms of Keratoconus
Symptoms often vary depending on the stage and severity of the condition. Most individuals begin noticing symptoms in their teens or early adulthood. Some of the key signs include:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
- Sensitivity to bright lights or glare
- Distorted or double vision
- Trouble seeing at night
- Halos around lights
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Irregular astigmatism
- A visible ring (Fleischer ring) around the cornea
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent progression.
How is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
At Nayana Eye Care, we offer comprehensive corneal evaluation using advanced imaging and diagnostic tools. These include:
- Slit-lamp exam and refraction test to assess corneal health and measure refractive errors
- Corneal topography and tomography to map the curvature and shape of your cornea
- Pachymetry to check corneal thickness
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) for detailed, high-resolution imaging of the corneal layers
These tests help us not only diagnose keratoconus accurately but also monitor how it progresses over time.
Managing Keratoconus at Nayana Eye Care
Though keratoconus cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with timely intervention. At Nayana, we tailor treatment plans based on the severity of the condition and your lifestyle needs:
Glasses & Soft Contact Lenses
Used in the early stages to correct mild vision distortion.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Advanced options like RGP lenses, scleral lenses, and hybrid lenses offer better vision and comfort in moderate-to-severe cases.
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens corneal collagen fibers and halts the progression of keratoconus. We also offer Sub-400 Micron Protocols at Nayana, which are safe even for very thin corneas.
Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS)
These are small implants that help flatten the cornea and improve vision by reducing irregularity.
Topography-guided PRK (TG-PRK)
A laser procedure that reshapes the cornea using advanced mapping technology like Contoura Vision for enhanced visual outcomes.
Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments (CAIRS)
An innovative approach using tissue implants to support and reshape the cornea.
Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty)
In advanced keratoconus, where vision is severely affected, a partial or full corneal transplant may be necessary. Our surgeons perform both DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty) and penetrating keratoplasty depending on the condition.
Nayana’s Expertise in Keratoconus Care
At Nayana Eye Care, we are committed to early detection, advanced diagnosis, and compassionate care for every keratoconus patient. Our eye specialists, backed by years of clinical expertise and state-of-the-art infrastructure, ensure you receive world-class treatment close to home in Kakinada.
We aim not only to manage the condition but to improve your visual comfort and quality of life.