Preventing Keratoconus Progression: Tips and Solutions from our Santa Clarita Optometrist

Published on
April 11, 2023

Keratoconus is an eye condition where the cornea, the clear dome-shaped surface of the eye, becomes thinner and bulging, causing distorted vision, dryness, and discomfort. In this article, we'll discuss factors that can help prevent keratoconus progression, the main cause of the condition, and a procedure that can halt its worsening.

Corneal Crosslinking: A Procedure to Halt Keratoconus Progression

Corneal crosslinking is an innovative procedure that can stop the progression of keratoconus. The procedure involves the combination of riboflavin, which is vitamin B2, and ultraviolet light to stiffen the cornea's structure.

The riboflavin is applied to the cornea, and then the eye is exposed to UV light, which activates the riboflavin and causes it to crosslink the collagen fibers in the cornea, strengthening its structure. The procedure does not reverse the cornea's structural changes, but it can stop its progression and prevent further vision deterioration.

Scleral Contact Lenses 

Scleral contact lenses are known to be effective in managing keratoconus by providing a stable, smooth surface over the irregular cornea. These lenses are designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, creating a tear-filled chamber between the lens and the cornea. This chamber helps to redistribute pressure evenly over the cornea, reducing the mechanical stress on the cornea caused by blinking and eye movements. This redistribution of pressure and improved corneal shape helps to slow or halt the progression of keratoconus. Additionally, scleral lenses are custom-made for each patient, ensuring a comfortable and precise fit that promotes healing and reduces discomfort.

Other Tips to Prevent Keratoconus Progression

Besides addressing underlying causes and considering corneal crosslinking, there are additional ways to help prevent keratoconus from worsening.

  • Avoiding eye trauma, such as rubbing or hitting the eyes
  • Protecting the eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses and hats
  • Avoiding the use of hard or rigid contact lenses that can further damage the cornea

It's essential to consult with an optometrist or ophthalmologist for proper diagnosis and 

treatment of keratoconus. They can recommend the appropriate treatment plan, including medications, corrective lenses, and surgical options such as corneal crosslinking.

A Cause of Keratoconus: Eye Rubbing

One of the factors in preventing keratoconus progression is addressing an underlying cause, which may be eye rubbing. Eye rubbing is a common habit, especially among children, and can cause structural changes in the cornea that may lead to keratoconus.

Prevention is important 

If you have been diagnosed with Keratoconus there are still many things you can do to prevent the condition from worsening. Eating healthy and exercise are recommended, as is quitting smoking. 

Prevent eye injuries by wearing specialty protective eye wear, eye injuries can be particularly detrimental to someone with keratoconus. 

Wearing sunglasses or any form of UV protection is also recommended. 

Take Action to Treat Your Keratoconus Symptoms with Our Experienced Optometrists in Santa Clarita

If you or a loved one is experiencing keratoconus symptoms like distorted vision or eye dryness, consult with our experienced Santa Clarita optometrists. We offer comprehensive eye exams and personalized treatment plans to help you maintain healthy vision. Contact us today at (661) 775-1860 to schedule an eye exam.

At our clinic, we specialize in providing medical eye care for patients with keratoconus, including the provision of medically necessary contact lenses. Patients from all over California, including those from Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, and San Fernando Valley, trust us for comprehensive medical eye care and the latest keratoconus treatments.

Testimonials


  • My eight year old daughter was terrified to go to the eye doctor for fear of her eyes being dilated. The doctor was SO KID friendly! He immediately made her comfortable by engaging her in conversation. It was a geat experience.


    Joya B.

  • Dr. Garbus spent an amazing amount of time to solve my very complicated visual problems. Over the years he has continually achieved results beyond what others felt possible. He is always up to date on the latest science. He is great!


    Dolores K.

  • Family Vision Care Valencia makes it so easy. Staff is knows what they are doing and Dr. Garbus is thorough and kept me well informed during the exam.


    Kristy B.

  • I have been coming to Family Vision Center for almost 20 years. Dr. Garbus has been able to help my vision when other doctors could not. Now my kids see him as well. I highly recommend this office!


    Autumn C.

  • The Doctor is very good. I felt on this visit he seemed rushed. I had questions to ask him but he was already with another patient. I still do not know if my eyes are the same , worse, or better.


    Howard B.

Testimonials


My eight year old daughter was terrified to go to the eye doctor for fear of her eyes being dilated. The doctor was SO KID friendly! He immediately made her comfortable by engaging her in conversation. It was a geat experience.


Joya B.

Dr. Garbus spent an amazing amount of time to solve my very complicated visual problems. Over the years he has continually achieved results beyond what others felt possible. He is always up to date on the latest science. He is great!


Dolores K.

Family Vision Care Valencia makes it so easy. Staff is knows what they are doing and Dr. Garbus is thorough and kept me well informed during the exam.


Kristy B.

I have been coming to Family Vision Center for almost 20 years. Dr. Garbus has been able to help my vision when other doctors could not. Now my kids see him as well. I highly recommend this office!


Autumn C.

The Doctor is very good. I felt on this visit he seemed rushed. I had questions to ask him but he was already with another patient. I still do not know if my eyes are the same , worse, or better.


Howard B.

All the staff is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and has been for all the years I have been going there.


Mary Ann H.
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