Kulsum International Hospital

Keratoconus

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Keratoconus usually starts in the teenage years and can progress into the 30s. Early treatment can stop it getting worse.

Symptoms

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Frequent changes in glasses prescription
  • Sensitivity to light and glare
  • Difficulty seeing at night

Causes and risk factors

The cause is not fully understood. Risk factors include a family history, eye rubbing, allergies and some genetic conditions.

Diagnosis

An eye specialist examines the eye and uses corneal mapping (topography).

Treatment

Treatment includes glasses or special contact lenses, corneal cross-linking to stop progression and, in advanced cases, corneal transplant.

When to see a doctor

See an eye specialist if your vision is becoming distorted or your glasses prescription keeps changing. Avoid rubbing your eyes. KIH can guide you to an eye specialist.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.