Video 1: How Prevalent is Keratoconus?
The prevalence of keratoconus has been a subject of debate due to limited studies, with some citing older research suggesting it occurs in about one in every two thousand individuals, labeling it a rare condition.
However, recent studies, including those from the International Keratoconus Academy, paint a different picture, especially concerning children.
These newer findings indicate a much higher prevalence, with keratoconus rates as high as one in 334 patients.
It’s evident that relying solely on outdated statistics does not accurately represent the true prevalence of keratoconus.
With improved methodologies and data from various countries, we now understand that keratoconus is more widespread than previously believed.
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Video 2: LASIK and Keratoconus
LASIK technology has come a long way.
Back in the 90s and early 2000s, the scans used to assess patients for LASIK weren’t as sophisticated. This means some people who seemed like good candidates for LASIK might have actually had undiagnosed Keratoconus, a condition that weakens the cornea.
Over time, this could lead to vision problems like worsening nearsightedness, blurry vision, and increased glare.
The good news is that today’s LASIK technology includes much more precise cornea scans. This helps doctors identify potential issues like Keratoconus beforehand and ensure LASIK is truly the right option.
If you had LASIK surgery before the mid-2000s and are experiencing any vision changes, it’s important to get checked for Keratoconus.
Early detection and treatment can help maintain good vision.
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Video 3: Cross-Linking for Keratoconus
Keratoconus, a condition causing the cornea to thin and bulge, can lead to blurry vision and affect daily life. While there’s no cure, corneal cross-linking offers a powerful tool to prevent further progression.
How Does Corneal Cross-Linking Work?
This FDA-approved procedure involves applying a special type of eye drop containing riboflavin (vitamin B2) to the cornea. Then, a controlled dose of ultraviolet (UV) light is applied to the eye. This combination stimulates the cornea to strengthen the existing collagen fibers and create new cross-links between them.
What to Expect:
- Strengthens the Cornea: The strengthened cornea becomes more resistant to bulging, preventing further worsening of keratoconus.
- Preserves Vision: Early intervention with corneal cross-linking can significantly reduce the risk of needing a corneal transplant in the future.
- Procedure Details: Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an ophthalmologist in an outpatient setting.
Important Note:
While corneal cross-linking can halt keratoconus progression, it doesn’t improve existing vision loss. Additional treatment with specialty contact lenses may be necessary to address vision concerns.
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Video 4: How Can keratoconus Affect your Life?
Dr. Stephanie Woo, a contact lens specialist optometrist, addresses a common concern: how keratoconus impacts daily life.
Keratoconus can significantly reduce vision quality, causing blurriness, distortions, halos, and difficulties seeing at night.
While there’s no cure, treatment options exist. Corneal cross-linking can slow progression, and specialized contacts like GP or scleral lenses can improve vision.
Early diagnosis by an eye doctor is crucial to explore the best course of action for managing keratoconus.
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Video 5: How is Keratoconus Diagnosed?
A keratoconus diagnosis necessitates seeking a qualified eye doctor specializing in corneal diseases.
General eye doctors may not have the extensive experience or advanced equipment required for proper diagnosis and management of this condition. Taking action involves researching and contacting optometrist with a focus on keratoconus or corneal diseases.
It’s also important to ensure the chosen practice has the latest technology for both diagnosis and treatment.
By prioritizing a specialist, you’ll gain access to the expertise and equipment necessary to maintain good vision and effectively manage keratoconus.
Diagnosing keratoconus involves several tools:
- Corneal Topography: This is the most accurate method and maps the shape of the cornea’s front and back surfaces. This detailed information helps in identifying potential signs of keratoconus.
- Visual Acuity: Poor vision, especially in young children who aren’t achieving 20/20 vision, can be a cause for concern.
- Retinoscopy: This test uses a specialized instrument to assess the light reflex in the eye. The reflex pattern can indicate potential keratoconus.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: This involves examining the cornea under a high-powered microscope to look for signs of thinning, which is a characteristic feature of keratoconus.
- Scarring: The presence of scarring indicates advanced keratoconus. Early detection is crucial to prevent such progression.
Early diagnosis is key!
If you suspect keratoconus in yourself or a loved one, seeking an eye doctor with specialized equipment can lead to a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
