Understand Keratoconus Symptoms, Causes and Surgery Cost

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder and one of the most challenging corneal conditions affecting millions around the world, particularly young adults in their most productive years. This condition alters the cornea’s structure, which makes clear vision a daily challenge. Effective keratoconus test protocols become essential for early detection to preserve sight and avoid several complications. Interestingly, many patients initially face keratoconus in one eye only, making awareness and early intervention easy for optimal outcomes. This blog will explore keratoconus symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, the cost of keratoconus surgery and some tips on how to look after our eyes in the longer term to maintain visual health and stability.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye disease where the normal round shape of the cornea becomes thin and develops a cone-like bulge. This irregular shape distorts how light enters the eye, causing distressed and blurred vision. It is a progressive condition, which may become more severe with time, especially when not monitored or addressed in its early stages. It typically develops in the teenage years or in the early 20s and can cause severe visual impairment if left untreated.

People often ask, “Can keratoconus be cured with surgery?” The answer depends on the stage at diagnosis. It can be managed with advanced surgical procedures, though early diagnosis is preferable. Understanding keratoconus causes helps to delay the progress and optimise the treatment.

What Are The Symptoms of Keratoconus?

Recognising the early symptoms of corneal disease can save the vision. Below are a few signs that patients usually report: 

• Distorted or blurred Vision, especially at night
• Glare or light sensitivity
• Discomfort or itchiness in the eyes
• Frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescription
• Double vision or ghost images in one eye
• Strain on the eyes, headaches, and general visual fatigue

In later stages, patients may experience discomfort or irritated eyes because of corneal scarring or intolerance of contact lenses, which causes the necessity for appropriate keratoconus eye pain relief strategies. This is why early diagnosis is so important; even minor symptoms can progress quickly if not treated on time.

What Causes Keratoconus?

There is no single definitive cause; research says there are several factors that are associated with keratoconus causes:

• Genetics: A medical history of family increases the risk
• Chronic Eye Rubbing: Especially if an individual has allergies or atopic diseases
• Underlying Conditions: Such as Down syndrome, connective tissue disease, or eczema.
• Oxidative & Environmental Stress: UV radiation, ill-fitted contact lenses, and damage to the corneal tissue due to oxidation.

Understanding what causes this condition can help patients take preventive measures, especially when they are at risk. 

How is Keratoconus Diagnosed?

If you’re wondering how to diagnose keratoconus, there are various methods used by specialists. The keratoconus tests usually include:

Essential Diagnostic Tests:

• Corneal Topography: A method to map the irregularity of the cornea surface shape.
• Pentacam Tomography: Offers a 3D image of the cornea, which increases the accuracy of diagnosis.
• Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness to detect thinning.
• Keratometry: Assesses the steepness and curvature of the cornea.
• Slit-lamp Examination: Enable the ophthalmologist to examine visible changes in structures.

Advanced Testing:

• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Offers cross-sectional imaging.
• Biomechanical Analysis: Tests corneal rigidity and deformation response.
• Scheimpflug Imaging: Aids in evaluating the front and back surfaces of corneas.

At Arohi Eye Hospital, we ensure accurate diagnoses and timely intervention to prevent further vision loss.

What Are The Treatment Options for Keratoconus?

Treatment options vary by severity. Early stages may benefit with just vision correction, whereas severe cases may need a surgical intervention. Below are a few available treatment options:

• Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses are Ideal for the initial stage cases
• Gas Permeable Lenses are required for advanced distortions
• Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL), a minimal-invasive procedure to strengthen the cornea structure
• Intacs (Corneal Implants), small rings inserted to flatten the cornea for better vision

For individuals experiencing discomfort, keratoconus eye pain relief such as lubricating drops, anti-allergy medications, or surgical measures can be taken depending on the severity.

Why and When is the Keratoconus Surgery Suggested?

Keratoconus surgery becomes necessary when conservative treatment, such as glasses, contact lenses or corneal cross-linking, fails to stabilise the progression or achieve adequate vision. In advanced stages, when there is a severe distortion or scarring of the cornea, one may need surgery, including corneal transplantation or implantable lenses. Surgery is also considered when patients develop hypersensitivity or are allergic to the lenses. Timely intervention improves both vision and quality of life, which is why regular follow-ups are essential for early surgical planning.

Keratoconus Surgery Cost in India

The financial aspect of treatment is a significant consideration for most of the families. The keratoconus surgery cost varies on several factors.

The procedure of corneal cross-linking generally costs between 30,000 and 70,000 rupees per eye, an excellent investment to halt the disease progression. The cost of a cornea transplant in Mumbai could range between 75,000 and 1.5 lakhs, based on the surgical procedure and the quality of the tissue.

Below are a few factors that influence the costs:

• Facilities and reputation of the hospital
• Experience and expertise of the surgeon
• Geographic location 
• Used technology and equipment 
• Post-operative care requirements

While evaluating keratoconus surgery cost, patients should consider the total expense of the treatment, including follow-up, medicines, and potential complications management.

Conclusion

Successful management of keratoconus required early detection and timely treatment to save vision in the long term. Starting with accurate diagnosis to advanced surgical treatment, every step equally matters. If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your eye health, do not wait. Seek the advice and support of an experienced eye specialist in Mumbai, and contact us at Arohi Eye Hospital, where we will help counter your ailment with professional advice, specialised care, and the advanced technology to address your condition. Your vision deserves the best treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is keratoconus a serious disease?

Yes, keratoconus is a serious disease if left untreated. However, with modern treatments, it can be effectively managed.

2. Can keratoconus be cured?

It cannot be permanently cured, but the right treatment can stop progression and restore functional vision in most cases.

3. What are the stages of keratoconus?

The condition progresses through mild, moderate, or severe. Each stage has different treatment options available.

4. Will keratoconus lead to blindness?

This is very rare with proper treatment. With early detection and the right approach, most patients maintain functional vision throughout life.

5. Can glasses correct keratoconus?

In very early stages, yes. But as the condition progresses, most people need special contact lenses or surgery for optimal vision.