Keratoconus in Chesterfield, MO

Keratoconus is a corneal condition where, over time, the corneal tissue thins and weakens, causing the cornea to reshape itself into a more oblong structure. As the cornea aids in vision by refracting light to focus on the retina, this change in corneal shape can result in distorted vision. Some patients are born with this condition and others may develop it from eye trauma. Our vision professionals at West County Opthalmology offer comprehensive eye care, including diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus to individuals in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO. 

Keratoconus symptoms often begin with subtle vision changes, such as increased blurriness, distorted images, or ghosting (the perception of multiple, faint, or "ghostly" images). As the condition progresses, patients may experience heightened sensitivity to light and glare, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, and difficulty seeing clearly despite corrective lenses. The gradual thinning and bulging of the cornea into a cone shape can cause significant visual impairment if left untreated, making early diagnosis and regular eye exams essential.

Keratoconus can develop for a number of reasons, and in many cases, several contributing factors are at play. While this corneal condition may seem to appear without warning, our vision professionals consider a few common causes during diagnosis, including:

• Genetics – Individuals with a family history of keratoconus are more likely to experience it themselves.

• Chronic eye rubbing – This habit is often linked to allergies and may weaken the cornea over time.

• Underlying health conditions – Certain conditions, like asthma, Down syndrome, and connective tissue disorders, have been associated with keratoconus.

• Oxidative stress – Imbalances in the eye’s natural defenses can contribute to corneal thinning.

• Hormonal changes – Shifts during puberty or pregnancy may influence the development or progression of this condition.

Risk factors for keratoconus include a combination of genetic, environmental, and health-related factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Some common risk factors include:

• Family history – A family history of keratoconus significantly raises the risk of developing the condition.
• Frequent eye rubbing – Excessive or aggressive eye rubbing, often due to allergies or irritation, can weaken the cornea and exacerbate its thinning.
• Chronic eye conditions – Conditions like vernal keratoconjunctivitis or other inflammatory eye disorders can contribute to corneal damage.
• Age – Keratoconus often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, with progression typically continuing into the mid-30s.

Our ophthalmologists will evaluate your condition and offer treatment solutions based on how advanced your keratoconus is. For some patients in the earlier stages of the disease, corrective lenses like eyeglasses or contacts can effectively correct the refractive error and allow for better vision. Keratoconus that has significantly advanced may require a more aggressive treatment approach, such as a corneal transplant where corneal tissue is taken from a human organ donor and used to replace your corneal tissue, or a corneal implant where a small medical device is inserted into your eye to correct vision. Once the progression of this condition has stabilized, lens surgery may be an option to correct higher eyeglasses prescriptions.

Can keratoconus be prevented?
Currently, there is no known way to prevent keratoconus. However, managing symptoms and delaying progression can be achieved through regular eye exams, avoiding eye rubbing, and adhering to prescribed treatments or therapies.

How does keratoconus affect vision?
Keratoconus can significantly impact vision by causing distortion and blurriness. As the cornea changes shape, light entering the eye is not properly focused on the retina, leading to visual disturbances that may require frequent adjustments to vision correction.

Can keratoconus progress over time?
Yes, keratoconus can progress over time, and the rate of progression varies from person to person. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help manage the condition and slow its advancement, reducing the risk of significant vision impairment.

Keratoconus is a progressive illness, meaning that your distorted vision symptoms will likely worsen over time, which is why treatment is vital. Contact West County Ophthalmology to learn more about the different treatment options for keratoconus available to you.