Keratoconus
Keratoconus
When dealing with an eye condition like keratoconus, it's important to seek quality eye care from a trusted source. The Cape Fear Eye Associates, PA, is an eye care center based in Fayetteville, North Carolina. We provide services for keratoconus and similar eye diseases. Before getting treated for this condition, here's what you need to know about keratoconus.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus develops when the cornea bulges into a cone-like structure. The cornea is an outer layer of the eye, working to protect the inner structure of the eye and to focus light rays onto the retina. When the cornea becomes thin or weakened, it can reshape into a cone. This results in symptoms such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, eye discolorization, and a loss of vision. If you experience any of these symptoms on a semi-regular basis, schedule an eye exam with our optometrist.
Causes of Keratoconus
Some people have a genetic predisposition to this disease. Be sure to ask if anybody in your family has a history of keratoconus. Certain conditions are linked to keratoconus, such as retinitis pigmentosa, hay fever, and asthma. Frequently rubbing the eye can cause long-term corneal damage. Inflammation can also lead to keratoconus. If you're unaware of what's causing the keratoconus, you can always undergo a diagnostic screening to investigate the condition. Once your eye doctor knows about the underlying cause, he or she can make a more informed decision about what treatment plan is appropriate for you.
Keratoconus Treatment Options
There are a few treatment options for those who are diagnosed with keratoconus. For example, cornea collagen crosslinking is a procedure that combines eye drop medication with ultraviolet (UV) light. The added collagen helps to stabilize the cornea of your eye. A corneal transplant is a surgical procedure that removes the center of your cornea, replacing it with a functional donor. There are also corrective contact lenses that work to reshape the structure of your cornea. Our eye health provider will design the treatment plan to best suit your situation. Be sure to mention whether you'd prefer to avoid eye surgery, or whether you have certain medication allergies.
Seeking Eye Care in Fayetteville, NC
At Cape Fear Eye Associates our multi-specialty center is staffed with multiple experienced eye care providers, including doctors who specialize in specific fields. If you're interested in learning more, call us at (910) 484-2284 to schedule an appointment.