Keratoconus requires continuous monitoring

 

Keratoconus is a disorder in which the cornea undergoes structural changes, becoming abnormally thin and progressively protruding forward, resulting in irregular astigmatism. Because the thinned area of the cornea bulges anteriorly and takes on a cone-like shape, the condition is referred to as keratoconus.

Although several hypotheses have been proposed regarding the cause of keratoconus, its exact etiology has not yet been clearly established.

Causes of Keratoconus

1. Genetic factors
   The hereditary nature of keratoconus has not been definitively established; however, the reported familial incidence is approximately 6–8%.

2. Association with atopic diseases
   

   A history of atopic disease is observed in approximately 12% of the general population, whereas it is significantly higher—about 35%—in patients with keratoconus. The prevalence of keratoconus is also increased in conditions such as Down syndrome. This may be related to biochemical changes caused by genetic abnormalities or to habitual eye rubbing.

3. Eye-rubbing habits
   

   Eye rubbing subjects the cornea to repeated mechanical trauma, which can damage corneal structure and contribute to the development of keratoconus.

4. Contact lens wear
   

   Wearing contact lenses may cause continuous microtrauma to the cornea, making even a normal cornea more susceptible to deformation.
   
   
   
   

   

   regular eye

   
   

   

   keratoconus eye

   
   

   Symptoms of Keratoconus

   Keratoconus most commonly develops during adolescence, but symptoms may also appear in individuals in their 20s and 30s, and in some cases the disease can continue to progress even after the age of 40. Therefore, keratoconus is an ocular condition that requires attention across all age groups.
   In the early stages, keratoconus often presents with few or no noticeable symptoms, and many patients may not perceive any abnormalities. However, as the disease progresses over time, myopia and astigmatism gradually worsen, leading to decreased visual acuity. Patients may find themselves frequently changing eyeglasses without realizing that keratoconus is the underlying cause.
   In the early stage, vision can often be corrected with eyeglasses, but in more advanced cases, correction with visual aids such as glasses or contact lenses alone may become difficult. As the condition advances, symptoms such as blurred vision, double vision, ghost images (seeing shadows or duplicate outlines), glare, halos, light sensitivity, and corneal opacity may occur.

   The Need for Self-Assessment and Comprehensive Examinations

   Because early symptoms of keratoconus are not prominent, caution is required when relying on self-assessment. If streetlights or vehicle headlights appear blurry, scattered, or multiplied at night, keratoconus should be considered as a possible cause.
   One simple self-check method is to cover one eye and assess the visual clarity of the other eye; however, this serves only as a reference. An accurate diagnosis requires a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination performed by an eye specialist.

   Prevention of Keratoconus and Regular Eye Examinations

   The most effective way to prevent keratoconus is early detection through regular eye examinations and timely intervention. Ophthalmologic clinics can comprehensively evaluate eye health through fundus examinations, visual acuity testing, and detailed assessment of the corneal condition.
   Although vision may temporarily seem improved by simply changing eyeglasses in the early stages, keratoconus is a condition that progresses slowly and often without obvious symptoms. Therefore, regular ophthalmologic check-ups are essential.

   Bright Eye Clinic Comprehensive Eye Examination System

   Bright Eye Clinic operates a 17-step comprehensive eye examination system supported by hospital–level equipment and specialized personnel. Even the same test is performed using multiple devices to triple-check ocular conditions and ensure more accurate results.
   Because many eye diseases become difficult to treat once they are recognized, we encourage patients to undergo comprehensive eye health evaluations — including not only vision testing but also screening for blinding eye diseases — at Bright Eye Clinic.