Utah Ophthalmologist Shares Information on Keratoconus

Lehi, Utah -

Waite Vision, a premier vision correction center in Lehi, Utah, recently published information for patients and prospective patients about Keratoconus. Waite Vision uses state-of-the-art technology to examine patients and determine the best type of treatment for their unique needs.

As explained by Waite Vision, Keratoconus is an eye condition that thins the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye) and causes it to gradually bulge outward into a cone shape. As the cornea is responsible for focusing the light that enters the eye, a cone-shaped cornea causes blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and glare. Unfortunately, this condition cannot be corrected by prescription glasses, given the irregular shape of the eye.

While there is likely a genetic predisposition for keratoconus, with symptoms appearing as early as the teens and early twenties, the main causes of keratoconus are external factors, such as constant or vigorous eye rubbing. The article explains that the pressure on the eye caused by forceful rubbing can weaken the structure of the cornea and cause it to lose its perfect shape. Other factors that can lead to the condition also relate to eye rubbing; conditions such as chronic allergies, hay fever and eczema, are risk factors that may contribute to the development of keratoconus because they lead to eye rubbing.

For those who suspect they might have keratoconus, Waite Vision shares that new technologies and advances in modern medical science have significantly improved the ability to diagnose keratoconus. The most common test used is corneal topography, which maps the curvature of the cornea with colors to show the shape of the front surface of the cornea. Similarly, corneal tomography can detect early signs of keratoconus. Corneal epithelial mapping can also help, as the first layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, manifests signs of keratoconus with thinning over the protruding cone.

These three methods can diagnose even the earliest and most subtle cases of keratoconus. It is now possible to diagnose keratoconus before any symptoms are noticed by the patient. Once symptoms have been detected, the standard of care for keratoconus is corneal crosslinking. In corneal crosslinking, riboflavin eye drops are placed on the cornea and allowed to soak in. Once the riboflavin has saturated the cornea, UV light is shined on the cornea which creates new covalent bonds between the different structures in the collagen matrix of the cornea. The new bonds strengthen the cornea and stops the progression of the keratoconus. While it will not fix the irregular shape, it does cause an improvement in the patient’s vision. The process takes about an hour per eye, and due to the nature of the procedure, the post-operative recovery can be a little uncomfortable. The patient may experience a temporary burning sensation, similar to sunburn on the cornea.

In addition to explaining what Keratoconus is, the signs and symptoms that someone may have the disorder and explaining treatment options, Waite Vision also delves deep into the subject and answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Keratoconus. They share how any interested party can schedule a consultation with their office for more information. Those who want to read the full article can find it here: Keratoconus Utah.

Waite Vision has helped many patients with their vision issues, vastly improving their quality of life and earning great reviews in the process. Jessica W.ll says in her review, “I had an amazing experience at Waite Vision. All staff are very professional and kind. Dr. Waite is amazing! I had a complicated prescription, but Dr. Waite was able to fix my vision! I love not having to wear glasses anymore. I really can't say enough good things about my experience. It was great!”

Those who want to learn more about Waite Vision and the range of services they provide should visit the company’s website. Those interested may get in touch with the clinic via email or phone. Waite Vision can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and more.

SOURCE: Press Advantage [Link]