The Role of Contact Lenses in Managing Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the shape of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. In a healthy eye, the cornea is round and dome-shaped, but in individuals with keratoconus, the cornea becomes thin and bulges outward into a cone-like shape. This abnormality can cause significant vision problems, including blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night.
 

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Keratoconus

The symptoms of keratoconus can vary from person to person, but common signs include blurry or distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light, frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions, and the appearance of ghosting or halos around lights.
 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination. Your eye doctor will assess the shape of your cornea and evaluate your visual acuity. They may also use advanced diagnostic tools such as corneal topography to obtain detailed images of the cornea's curvature.
 

The Role of Specialty Contact Lenses in Managing Keratoconus

Specialty contact lenses are designed to address the irregular shape of the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. There are several types of specialty contact lenses available for managing keratoconus.
 

There are several types of specialty contact lenses designed specifically for individuals with keratoconus. Some of the main types of specialty contact lenses for keratoconus include:
 

• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These are often the first choice for managing keratoconus. RGP lenses are made of durable plastic materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, providing clear vision and maintaining the corneal shape.
•  Scleral Lenses: Scleral lenses are larger gas permeable lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). By creating a smooth, uniform refractive surface over the irregular cornea, scleral lenses can often provide improved vision and comfort for individuals with advanced keratoconus.
•  Hybrid Lenses: Hybrid lenses combine a rigid gas permeable center with a soft lens skirt. This design allows for the clarity of RGP lenses while providing the comfort of soft lenses, making them a popular option for individuals with irregular corneas.
• Piggyback Lenses: This approach involves wearing a soft contact lens on the eye first, with an RGP lens placed over it. The soft lens provides a cushioning effect, while the RGP lens provides the necessary correction for vision.

It's important to consult with an optometrist to determine the most suitable type of specialty contact lens based on the individual's specific corneal shape, visual needs, and overall ocular health.
 

The Benefits of Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

Specialty contact lenses for managing keratoconus offers several benefits. Firstly, these lenses can provide improved visual acuity, allowing individuals with keratoconus to see more clearly and comfortably.
 

Secondly, specialty contact lenses can help stabilize the progression of keratoconus by providing consistent support and maintaining the cornea's shape. Additionally, these lenses can enhance overall comfort and reduce symptoms such as glare and halos, improving quality of life for individuals with keratoconus.
 

Schedule Your Eye Exam with Miller Optometry Today

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that can significantly impact an individual's vision and quality of life. Specialty contact lenses play a vital role in managing keratoconus by providing improved visual acuity, stability, and comfort. By working closely with your eye doctor, individuals with keratoconus can find the most suitable contact lens option to meet their unique needs and enjoy clear and comfortable vision.
 

If you are experiencing any symptoms or have a family history of keratoconus, schedule an appointment with our optometrist to discuss your options for managing keratoconus and find the best contact lens solution for your needs.