Keratoconus


What are the causes and symptoms of Keratoconus?


Keratoconus, sometimes called conical cornea, is a condition causing poor vision and it affects many young Australians.  This condition varies from extremely mild (with little or no effect on vision) to quite severe with a marked reduction in vision.

In keratoconus, the cornea becomes increasingly thin and uneven over time. So, instead of maintaining an even curve (like the side of an orange), over a period of time it starts to bulge and become uneven (more like the side of a pear). 


As the condition progresses, vision deteriorates, sometimes rapidly. However, it does not cause blindness. 


Keratoconus usually starts to develop in the teenage years but it is sometimes only picked up when a person has a consultation for laser eye surgery later in life.  The progression of keratoconus usually lasts 10-20 years before stabilising.