World Keratoconus Day Helps Raise Awareness

Most people have never heard of keratoconus, but for patients who live with this serious, progressive eye condition, World Keratoconus Day is an important day.

While November 10 is set aside to recognize keratoconus, Vance Thompson Vision supports those with the condition every day. 

“Undiagnosed and untreated keratoconus can lead to very poor vision which can’t be treated with glasses or contact lenses and then necessitates a corneal transplant,” said Dr. Vance Thompson, ophthalmologist and practice founder.

World Keratoconus Day also reminds everyone that yearly eye exams are essential to preventing and slowing eye conditions. If caught at an early age, eye doctors can offer treatments to keratoconus patients that prevent the need for a cornea transplant later in life.

“The beauty of recognizing keratoconus is that the chances of needing a corneal transplant can be greatly reduced through behavior modification or cross-linking,” Thompson added.

Keratoconus alters the shape of the cornea (the front of the eye) and distorts vision. The cornea is normally round, dome-shaped and relatively thick. However, keratoconus causes the cornea to gradually thin and weaken, which results in a cone-shaped bulge. This abnormal corneal structure causes blurry vision and sensitivity to light. 

Keratoconus often initially presents in patients around their late teens to early 20s. The condition then gradually progresses over the next 10-20 years. 

Frequent eye rubbing can also suggest the presence of keratoconus. 

“We work alongside allergists to provide routine screenings to patients who have a tendency to rub their eyes,” said Dr. Mitch Ibach, an optometrist at Vance Thompson Vision who regularly treats patients with keratoconus.

Vision experts are still determining the exact cause of keratoconus, but they have noticed the presence of a genetic component. Several studies have shown that around 10% of keratoconus patients have a relative with the same condition. 

Parents with family histories of keratoconus should watch for keratoconus symptoms (such as squinting and frequently changing prescriptions) in their children and ensure that they receive regular eye exams. 

While World Keratoconus Day is recognized once a year, Vance Thompson Vision is engaged all year long. Most of the practice’s seven locations conduct studies related to cross-linking, a procedure that strengthens the eyes’ collagen fibers. The practice is also doing ongoing research on ectasia, a condition in which inner layers of cornea weaken and distort vision.

“We’re dedicated to providing everyone with clearer vision and healthy sight,” said Thompson. ”Our clinics have helped progress keratoconus treatment options and will continue doing so through ongoing and upcoming clinical trials.”  

Every patient deserves the most advanced and quality vision care possible. This November 10, help Vance Thompson Vision support keratoconus patients and spread awareness by wearing a lime green ribbon.