I Have a Family History of Keratoconus What Do I Do Next?
There are several questions surrounding the patient with a family history when it comes to Keratoconus. In the past there was little in the way of treatment of Keratoconus. In the end many patients would need to receive corneal transplants, which were invasive, painful and required a long recover time. However over the past decade there have been many changes to the treatment for Keratoconus. Many doctors are finding that earlier detection of the condition will prevent more invasive or longer treatments from being a necessity.
Family History of Keratoconus will merely make you more at risk for development of the condition; it is not a guarantee that if you have a family member with the condition you will get it. You may require more evaluations, and a closer watch. Most eye care professionals recommend that children with family history of Keratoconus undergo their first screening at age 6. It is suggested that parents then continue annual exams to watch for any early signs of Keratoconus. However if your eye care professional knows you are a higher risk precautions can be incorporated to ensure a quicker diagnosis, and treatment plan should you need it.
In traditional treatments glasses, contact lenses like RGP (Rigid Gas Permeable lenses) were used before the eventual corneal transplant. With today’s technology we are now rarely using the corneal transplants and treatments are more effective than ever before.
Today’s Keratoconus treatments have been effective in slowing the progression, in addition to stopping and/or reversing the progression of Keratoconus. The overall outlook of Keratoconus treatment is a great one and with continued research and improvements to Keratoconus treatments we have less pain and more improvement in your quality of vision.
Holcomb C3-R® is one such treatment that is has changed the outlook for those with a family history of Keratoconus. Holcomb C3-R® has been performed on patients as young as 9 years old to strengthen the cornea and preserve vision.
Below are Signs of Keratoconus:
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Frequent changes in prescriptions
- Blurred or double vision
- Halos or glares around lights
- Sensitivity to light
- Poor night vision
- Dry eyes
- Squinting or Straining Your Eyes
If you notice any of these signs, please discuss with your eye care professional and consider an evaluation for Holcomb C3-R® to preserve vision and stop progression of Keratoconus.
For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association
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