Keratoconus is an uncommon condition in which the normally
round, spherical shape of the cornea (the
clear front "window" of the eye)
thins and develops a cone-like bulge. The
word keratoconus literally means "cone-shaped
cornea."
Not much is known as to the cause of keratoconus.
Some researchers believe that constant rubbing
of the eyes can lead to the cone-shape to
develop, while others believe that it is related
to genetics since about 10% of the people
with the disease also have a family member
with keratoconus.
Symptoms usually begin in people in the late
teens or early twenties, rarely developing
after the age of 30. This disease usually
affects both eyes. Common symptoms include
blurry and/or distorted vision, light sensitivity,
halos and/or glare around lights, and frequent
changes in your glasses or contact prescriptions.
In it's early stages, keratoconus can often
be treated with glasses or hard contact lenses.
If the condition worsens and scars develop
on the cornea, it may be necessary to perform
a
corneal transplant,
though only about 20% of people with keratoconus
require a corneal transplant.