eye care support

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea—the clear front surface of the eye—becomes thinner and gradually bulges forward into a cone-like shape.

This irregular shape affects how light enters the eye and can lead to blurred or distorted vision.

Keratoconus affects around 1 in 3,000 people. It is considered a genetic condition, but because it is recessive, the chance of a parent passing it on to their child is relatively low (about 1 in 50). It usually develops between the ages of 10 and 25.

AP

Keratoconus may be associated with:

Allergies
Asthma
Double-jointedness
Eczema
Reduced night vision
(Rarely) brief episodes of chest discomfort
AP

Keratoconus does not cause blindness.

Keratoconus FAQs

The earliest symptom is blurred or distorted vision caused by increasing short-sightedness and astigmatism as the cornea changes shape. In the early stages, vision can usually be corrected with glasses.

As the condition progresses, the cornea becomes more irregular, and glasses may no longer provide clear vision. At this stage, rigid contact lenses are often used to create a smooth, regular surface that improves clarity.

Management depends on the severity and progression of the condition.

  • Spectacles: Useful in the early stages when the cornea is only mildly irregular.
  • Rigid contact lenses: As keratoconus progresses, rigid gas-permeable lenses often provide the best vision by masking the irregular corneal shape. Because the cornea continues to change, regular check-ups are essential to ensure lenses fit safely and comfortably.
  • Collagen cross linking: Your ophthalmologist may recommend collagen cross linking which is a minimally invasive procedure used to strengthen corneal collagen fibres thus slowing progression of the disease.
  • Corneal graft (keratoplasty): Around 15% of people with keratoconus may eventually require a corneal graft if vision deteriorates or contact lenses become intolerable. A graft involves replacing the thinned area of the cornea with healthy donor tissue. Success rates are high, although glasses or contact lenses are usually still needed afterward.

In about 85% of cases, keratoconus gradually stabilises by around age 35. In the remaining cases, progression continues and may require more advanced management.