Keratoconus

Keratoconus, (KEHR-ah-toh-KOH-nus), is an uncommon eye condition where the typically round, oval-like cornea becomes thin and develops a cone-like bulge. This abnormal shape prevents the light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina and causes distortion of vision. Advanced Eye & Laser Center of Mansfield specializes in keratoconus treatment.

In its earliest stages, keratoconus causes slight blurring and distortion of vision and increased sensitivity to glare and light. It is typically diagnosed in the patient’s adolescent years and attains its most severe state in the twenties and thirties. Keratoconus may progress for 10-20 years and then slow in its progression. Each eye may be affected differently. As keratoconus progresses, the cornea bulges more and vision may become more distorted. If afflicting both eyes, the deterioration in vision can affect the patient’s ability to drive a car or read normal print. However, despite the disease’s unpredictable course, keratoconus can often be successfully managed with little or no impairment to the patient’s quality of life.