Living with Keratoconus: What Can You Expect?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular corneal shape leads to distorted vision, making everyday tasks like reading, driving, or working on a computer more challenging. While receiving a keratoconus diagnosis can feel overwhelming, understanding what to expect can help you adapt and take control of your eye health.

Early Symptoms and Progression

Keratoconus often starts in the teenage years or early adulthood and can progress slowly over time. Common early signs include:

• Blurry or distorted vision

• Increased sensitivity to light and glare

• Frequent prescription changes for glasses or contact lenses

• Difficulty seeing at night

As the condition progresses, vision correction with standard glasses may no longer be sufficient, and specialized lenses or treatments are often needed.

Vision Correction Options

Although keratoconus can affect vision significantly, there are several effective solutions we offer:

• Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses (RGPs): These small, firm lenses help provide clearer vision by creating a smooth surface over the irregular cornea.

• Hybrid and Scleral Lenses: Options like SynergEyes Hybrid lenses and scleral lenses combine comfort with excellent vision correction by vaulting over the cornea and resting on the sclera (the white of the eye).

• Custom Soft Lenses: Lenses such as SpecialEyes soft custom lenses are designed specifically for irregular corneas, offering a comfortable alternative for some patients.

Each option has its benefits, and our optometrist can determine which is best based on the severity of your condition and your lifestyle needs.

Lifestyle Considerations

Living with keratoconus means making small adjustments to protect your vision:

• Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen corneal thinning.

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce light sensitivity.

• Stay consistent with follow-up eye exams to monitor progression and update your treatment plan.

• Explore vision aids or digital tools, such as high-contrast settings on screens, to make daily activities easier.

Discover Clearer Sight with JC Eyes

Though keratoconus is a lifelong condition, modern specialty contact lenses offer life-changing improvements in vision and comfort. With proper diagnosis and a customized lens fitting from your eye doctor, you can continue to enjoy everyday activities without the limitations of distorted vision.

To learn more about your options for keratoconus treatment, schedule an eye exam with JC Eyes and discover which specialty lens solution is right for you. Visit our office in Jersey City, New Jersey, or call (201) 801-3600 today.