keratoconus treatment in Kalyan

Keratoconus

Understanding About Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. In this condition, the cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone shape, which distorts vision. This can lead to significant visual impairment and discomfort.

Types of Keratoconus:

Early Stage:

Mild distortion of vision, often correctable with glasses.

Moderate Stage:

Increased distortion, requiring specialized contact lenses.

Advanced Stage:

Severe distortion, may require surgical intervention.

Symptoms:

Blurred Vision:

Difficulty seeing clearly, particularly at night.

Sensitivity to Light and Glare:

Bright lights may cause discomfort.

Ghosting or Halos:

Seeing multiple images or halos around lights.

Frequent Prescription Changes:

Regular updates in eyewear prescriptions.

Eye Irritation:

Discomfort or redness in the eyes

Treatment:

Corrective Lenses:

Glasses: Typically used in early stages.
Contact Lenses: Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are common for moderate cases, providing better vision correction.

Corneal Cross-Linking:

A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens corneal tissue to slow progression. It involves applying riboflavin (Vitamin B2) to the cornea and then exposing it to ultraviolet light.

Intacs (Intrastromal Corneal Rings):

Small, curved inserts placed in the cornea to flatten the cone shape and improve vision.

Consulting an Eye Care Professional:

Regular check-ups with an eye specialist to monitor the condition and adapt treatment as needed.

Surgery:

Corneal Transplant: In advanced cases, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision. This involves replacing the affected cornea with donor tissue.

Precautions:

Follow-Up Appointments:

Regular visits to monitor keratoconus progression.

Avoid Eye Rubbing:

Rubbing the eyes can worsen the condition.

Protective Eyewear:

Use sunglasses to shield against UV rays and reduce glare.

Before Surgery

Before keratoconus surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive eye exam to assess the severity of their condition and determine surgical suitability. This examination includes corneal mapping and discussions about any medications that may need to be paused. Additionally, patients are typically advised to stop wearing contact lenses for a specified period before the procedure, as these can alter the shape of the cornea.

During Surgery

During the surgery, local anesthesia is applied through numbing eye drops, allowing the patient to remain awake and pain-free. The specific procedure can vary: for corneal cross-linking, riboflavin drops are applied to the cornea, followed by exposure to UV light to strengthen the cornea. In cases where Intacs are placed, small devices are inserted into the cornea to reshape it. If a corneal transplant is necessary, the damaged cornea is removed and replaced with donor tissue. The entire procedure usually lasts about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

After Surgery

After surgery, patients may experience temporary blurry vision, dryness, and mild discomfort. Protective goggles are provided to shield the eyes, and a prescribed regimen of eye drops is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and protect their eyes from dust or irritants during the recovery period. Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring healing and addressing any concerns about vision changes or discomfort. Understanding these phases helps ensure effective management and recovery following keratoconus surgery.

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