If you struggle with blurry vision, light sensitivity, or cloudy vision, these symptoms may indicate you have a condition called keratoconus. At Eye Q Optique in Buffalo Grove and the Tri-Taylor and Near West Side neighborhoods of Chicago, Illinois, the experienced optometrists offer an array of treatments to improve your vision and reduce the risk of complications. Call the nearest Eye Q Optique office to schedule an eye exam or use the online booking feature today.

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a condition that develops because your corneas thin and bulge outward into a cone shape. When left untreated, it often causes blurry vision, light or glare sensitivity, and other vision problems. Keratoconus usually affects both of your eyes, but it may affect one eye more severely. 

The condition often develops during ages 10-25 and can gradually progress when left untreated.

What are the symptoms of keratoconus?

Common signs and symptoms of keratoconus include:

• Light or glare sensitivity
• Distorted or blurry vision
• Problems with night driving
• Clouding or worsening vision
• The need for frequent vision prescription changes

When left untreated, your cornea could swell and cause sudden vision impairment or cornea scarring, which may eventually require a cornea transplant. 

What are the risk factors for keratoconus?

While the cause of keratoconus isn’t clear, genetics and environmental factors both appear to play roles in its development. Risk factors include:

• Family history of keratoconus
• Vigorously rubbing your eyes
• Down syndrome
• Hay fever
• Asthma
• Retinitis pigmentosa

Undergoing routine eye exams is the best way to detect keratoconus and reduce your chances of developing complications. 

How does my provider diagnose keratoconus?

To find out if you have keratoconus and develop a treatment plan, the experts at Eye Q Optique review your symptoms and eye health history. They also complete vision testing,an eye exam and topography.

How is keratoconus treated?

Standard treatments for keratoconus include wearing glasses or contact lenses can correct vision problems associated with keratoconus. You might wear soft, hard, or specialty contact lenses to achieve the best outcome.

The Eye Q Optique experts tailor each treatment plan to match your needs, lifestyle, and the severity of your condition. They monitor you regularly to make sure keratoconus doesn’t progress to a severe stage.

To get screened or treated for keratoconus, call the nearest Eye Q Optique office or use the online booking tool today.