Keratoconus is a serious eye disease characterized by the thinning of the corneal layer, which is located at the front part of the eye, and its protrusion into a conical shape over time. This disease, which generally begins during adolescence, may initially occur in one eye but can spread to both over time. One of the most common causes of the development of keratoconus is vigorous eye rubbing. Eye itching caused by allergies in children is a major trigger of this condition.
Along with allergic diseases, symptoms such as watering, redness, and discharge in the eyes may occur. This leads children to continuously and vigorously rub their eyes. Over time, this behavior can weaken and change the shape of the corneal tissue, initiating the development of keratoconus. Research has shown that the prevalence of keratoconus significantly increases in children with allergic asthma and allergic eye diseases.
Geographical Effects and Increasing Case Numbers
Keratoconus is related not only to individual habits but also to environmental factors. In Turkey, this disease is more common in regions like the Southeastern Anatolia Region, where dust and pollen levels are high. In recent years, a noticeable increase in keratoconus cases has been reported in Izmir and its surroundings. Sterile environments brought about by modern urban living lead to a higher incidence of allergic diseases in children, consequently increasing the risk of keratoconus.
The Disease Can Be Halted with Cross-Linking Treatment
One of the most effective methods for treating keratoconus is the Cross Linking (Corneal Cross-Linking) method, developed in recent years. In this treatment, drop anesthesia is first applied, after which the epithelial tissue on the surface of the cornea is gently removed. A special vitamin-containing drop is applied to the eye surface, and then the cornea is strengthened with ultraviolet (UV) light.
The main purpose of this procedure is to halt the progression of the disease and stabilize the corneal structure. Regular use of drops recommended by the doctor and adherence to follow-up examinations are crucial for the success of the treatment.
Use of Glasses and Contact Lenses
In patients with keratoconus, ordinary eyeglass lenses may become insufficient as visual impairment progresses. In such cases, specially designed hard contact lenses or hybrid lenses specifically for keratoconus may be recommended. Lenses provide clearer vision by balancing the irregular shape of the cornea. In some advanced cases, surgical methods such as the placement of rings inside the cornea may be employed. The most appropriate treatment approach is determined by an eye doctor based on the individual's condition and the stage of the disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal disorder that can lead to significant vision loss if not detected early. Thus, recognizing the symptoms of the disease is essential for initiating treatment in the early stages. Here are the most common and noteworthy symptoms of keratoconus:
- Visual impairment not fully correctable by glasses: The most notable feature of keratoconus is that standard eyeglass lenses do not adequately improve vision quality. Patients may not achieve clear vision even if their prescription changes frequently. This situation is often noticed as a complaint of not seeing clearly despite an eyeglass prescription.
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia): The thinning and irregularity of the cornea cause light to refract irregularly onto the retina. This leads to discomfort and glare, especially in the presence of bright lights. There may be extreme sensitivity to daylight or car headlights at night.
- Weakening of night vision: As the shape of the cornea deteriorates, the eye's ability to focus light decreases. This results in a noticeable decline in vision quality in the dark or in dim lighting. It becomes particularly challenging to see while driving or in low-light environments.
- Need to squint for better vision: Patients with keratoconus tend to squint to see clearly. While squinting provides temporary clarity by allowing the image to pass through certain points, it can lead to eye strain and headaches in the long term.
- Recurring headaches and eye pain: The irregular refractive errors and the constant effort of the eye to focus can cause tension in the eye muscles. This may result in recurring headaches, discomfort around the eyes, and eye fatigue throughout the day.
- Unexpected increase in astigmatism: A rapid increase in astigmatism values, which normally remain within normal limits during childhood and adolescence, can be a significant warning sign for keratoconus. In such cases, the patient's eyeglass prescription changes frequently, yet vision remains unclear. The irregular and progressive pattern of astigmatism is indicative of keratoconus.
If there are one or more of these symptoms, it is very important for the person to consult an eye specialist without delay. Early diagnosis of keratoconus increases the success rate of treatment options aimed at halting the progression of the disease.
When a diagnosis is delayed, severe conical protrusion, thinning, and eventual opacification of the cornea may occur. In such cases, the disease can no longer be treated merely with medical or lens therapy but may require more advanced surgical procedures such as corneal transplantation.
Therefore, any vision impairment beginning in childhood, problems with clarity that cannot be corrected with glasses, or frequently changing eyeglass prescriptions should be taken seriously, and routine eye examinations should not be neglected.
The Link Between Allergic Eye Itching and Keratoconus
Allergy is a common issue, especially in children, and the resulting eye itching paves the way for the development of keratoconus. Children with allergies may aggressively rub their eyes to relieve the itch. This behavior accelerates the development of the disease by causing repetitive microtraumas to the cornea.
Therefore, it is crucial to educate children with allergic eye diseases not to rub their eyes. Antihistamine drops or other medical solutions to control the allergy should be used as advised by a doctor.
Keratoconus is a manageable eye disorder with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Particularly in children, addressing conditions such as allergies and itching plays a significant role in preventing this disease and stopping its progression. Regular eye check-ups, conscious use of lenses or glasses, and appropriate medical treatment can lead to clearer vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Keratoconus diagnosed?
Keratoconus diagnosis is established by a detailed examination conducted by a doctor. In the initial phase, visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses is detected. Then, specialized tests like corneal topography or pachymetry are used to measure the shape and thickness of the cornea, confirming the presence of keratoconus. Early diagnosis is crucial to halt the progression of the disease.
What is the most effective method in Keratoconus treatment?
How long does the treatment for Keratoconus take?
What is the most suitable age for Keratoconus treatment?
Keratoconus generally begins during adolescence and young adulthood. The sooner the treatment starts, the more the progression of the disease can be halted. Treatment methods like Cross Linking usually yield the most effective results in the early stages of the disease. Treatment can also be applied in older ages, but the process might be more challenging.