Understanding Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the normally round cornea — the clear, front surface of the eye — to thin and bulge outward into a cone-like shape. This distortion affects how light enters the eye, leading to blurry, distorted vision that cannot be fully corrected with glasses. People with keratoconus may also experience increased sensitivity to light, frequent prescription changes, and difficulty seeing clearly at night.

While the exact cause isn’t always known, keratoconus is often linked to genetic factors, chronic eye rubbing, and certain underlying conditions like allergies or connective tissue disorders. It usually begins in the teenage years or early adulthood and may worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to slowing its progression and protecting vision. Thankfully, modern treatment options — including specialty contact lenses, corneal crosslinking, and surgical procedures — can help restore clarity and improve quality of life.

How is Keratoconus Treated?

Keratoconus treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. In the early stages, vision may be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. As the cornea becomes more irregular, patients often require custom contact lenses like scleral lenses, which vault over the cornea to provide clear, comfortable vision by creating a smooth, tear-filled surface.

To slow or halt the progression of the disease, many patients benefit from corneal crosslinking — a non-surgical procedure that strengthens the cornea using ultraviolet light and vitamin B2 (riboflavin). This treatment can preserve vision and reduce the need for future surgery.

When to see a specialist?

If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus — or suspect you may have it — it’s important to see a specialist early. Keratoconus is a progressive condition, meaning it tends to worsen over time, especially in younger patients. Early evaluation can help slow its progression and preserve your best possible vision.

You should see a keratoconus specialist if you experience any of the following:

  • Frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription

  • Blurry or distorted vision that’s not corrected by regular glasses

  • Increased light sensitivity or glare, especially at night

  • A family history of keratoconus

  • Discomfort or poor vision with standard contact lenses

  • A new keratoconus diagnosis without a clear treatment plan

Specialists have advanced tools to monitor the shape and health of your cornea and can recommend treatments like scleral lenses or corneal crosslinking that general eye care providers may not offer. Seeing the right provider at the right time can make a life-changing difference in your long-term vision and quality of life.