Keratoconus is a condition that affects the front surface of the eye called the cornea, causing it to progressively thin out. Over time, the cornea protrudes, leading to distortions in your vision.
While there is a genetic component to keratoconus, it is highly correlated to excessive eye rubbing, and is often associated with eye allergies. Aggressive rubbing of the cornea affects its ability to maintain its structure, thereby leading to thinning and eventual protrusion.
It can be difficult to tell if you have keratoconus, but some of the early symptoms include mild blurring or distortions in your vision, light sensitivity, or the inability to maintain crisp, clear vision with traditional glasses and contact lenses.
Keratoconus can lead to vision loss that cannot be corrected with regular glasses or traditional soft contact lenses. Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry can detect early signs of this progressive disease during a routine eye exam. We'll then use a special imagine technique called corneal topography to map out the surface of the cornea and check for changes associated with keratoconus.
Scleral lenses are custom-fit, large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses specifically designed to rest on the sclera, or white part of the eye. By functionally replacing the irregular cornea with their flawlessly smooth surface, scleral contacts help correct vision problems associated with keratoconus.
Come see why we are considered the best optometrists in Northern Virginia!
If you are searching for a reliable eye care partner in the region who knows and understands your needs, look no further than Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry. With seven convenient locations across the area, you do not have to travel far to receive excellent eye care.
