Tag: Keratoconus symptoms

What You Should Know About Keratoconus Treatment

May 15, 2013

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus , Keratoconus advice , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Options , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments

Keratoconus is a progressive condition that can severely change the patient’s quality of vision over time. As with many conditions if it is caught early it can be maintained giving the patient a well improved quality of vision improving the overall vision and reducing the symptoms. Generally the condition progresses slowly but if you have other underlined conditions it can progress at a more aggressive rate.

In the past there was only one main treatment for Keratoconus other than eye glasses, or contact lenses which was a painful and invasive corneal transplant. Over the past decade or more technology has improved the treatments for Keratoconus including treatments like INTACS, Holcomb C3-R ® (cornea collagen crosslinking), and even CK. These treatments alone or combine can improve the patients overall vision, and in some cases they have been known to stop the progress of the condition or even reverse the damage done by Keratoconus.

Holcomb C3-R ® Crosslinking System:

The Holcomb C3-R ® is a treatment which is making incredible progress in the treatments for patients with Keratoconus. Keratoconus is a progressive condition that damages the cornea or the outer lens of the eye causing it to go from a dome shape to cone shape, distorting the vision. Holcomb C3-R ® strengthens the corneal fibers allowing the cornea to stop the progressive cone shape from developing further. This helps preserve vision by stopping the devastating vision loss that comes from the progressive cone shape caused by Keratoconus.

The Holcomb C3-R ® is a method that is non-invasive and only takes about 30 minutes to perform, often done right in the doctor’s office. It requires a special light called a UV light and a special solution applied to the eye. The UV light activates the special solution which over 4-16 weeks continues to improve and strengthen of the corneal.

The Holcomb C3-R ® can be done at the same time as other procedures improving the patient’s quality of vision even more. Compatible procedures include INTACS, CK, and the Visian ICL.

Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD is a renowned eye surgeon specializing in Keratoconus treatments, and other procedures.

Learn how to fix Keratoconus with advanced Keratoconus Treatment: www.FixesYourKeratoconus.com

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

©2019 BOXER WACHLER VISION INSTITUTE OF BEVERLY HILLS. 465 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 902, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Call: 310.594.5210 Or Text: 424.245.0171 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. email: info@boxerwachler.com.

How Scleral Contact Lenses Can Help Your Keratoconus

May 1, 2013

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus , Keratoconus advice , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments , Scleral contact lenses

For those who have Keratoconus you may already know how difficult and uncomfortable it maybe to wear Rigid Gas permeable contact lenses. But this is often a way of life for those suffering with Keratoconus. And you may know all too well it can be a big part of your treatment of Keratoconus. But now the Scleral Contact lens can make it a bit more bearable.

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that creates an irregular shape in the cornea of the eye. As it progresses the irregularity progresses and creates a cone shape causing distortions in vision. The Scleral Contact lens sits on the white of the eye or the Scleral and helps reduce some of that irregularity. In addition, since it doesn’t rest on the cornea patients notice improved comfort and increased wear time.

Benefits?

Scleral lenses rest on the edge of the sclera or the white area of the eye. Unlike most Gas permeable contact lenses providing more comfort for the patient since they don’t touch the cornea.

The Scleral lens helps those with hard to fit eyes including those with Keratoconus. The lenses fill around the edges with fluid and moisten the eyes of those with dry eye giving them more comfort than normal rigid gas permeable lenses.

They are also larger than most lenses providing the support the eye needs, and not provoking the movement of the lens during blinks.

Scleral contact lenses come in many types. They provide comfort among many other benefits for those suffering with Keratoconus. Take the time to review your options before deciding your overall treatment. Over the last decade there have been many new and advanced technologies. The options are out there, just be sure to look!

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Can LASIK Improve Your Quality of Vision if You Have Keratoconus?

April 15, 2013

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus , Keratoconus advice , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus Signs , Keratoconus symptoms

For those who have Keratoconus there are many treatments to help improve their symptoms and quality of vision. Over time the cornea deteriorates and it becomes harder to see despite your use of contacts or glasses.

LASIK treatment is often an option that individuals seek to improve vision. However, if you have Keratoconus LASIK can accelerate the disease and lead to a cornea transplant. Therefore, what does one do to improve their vision when LASIK is not an option?

The good news is there has been great advancement in the treatment of Keratoconus and improving vision. Treatments such as Holcomb C3-R® (cornea collagen crosslinking) can stabilize the vision and allow you to improve your vision with treatments such as Visian ICL (permanent, no maintenance, insert-able contact lens) and PRK (surface laser treatment).

Visian ICL is a permanent contact lens that is inserted inside the eye just behind the iris (color) portion of the eye. Once in place your vision can be greatly improved. The benefit is that these lenses do not need to be removed or clean – it is a maintenance free vision correction option.

PRK is a surface laser treatment that gently re-shapes the cornea to improve vision. This procedure is ideal for patients with mild Keratoconus.

The use of glasses and contacts are often not enough for treatment and other techniques are needed to gain improved quality of vision. Patients who are uncomfortable with glasses and contacts can benefit from Visian ICL or PRK treatments.

In order to take advantage of these vision correction options when you have Keratoconus, the first step is to have your vision stabilized with the Holcomb C3-R® (cornea collagen crosslinking) procedure. This is a one-time treatment that stabilizes the vision and stops the progressive vision changes.

Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD is a renowned eye surgeon specializing in Keratoconus treatments, and other procedures.

Learn more about Keratoconus treatments from other patients: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAL-XlfapEU&feature=share&list=PLSX2cKGbtvMzDbNrXs0xBYgSJ1HSyZV6d

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Protecting Your Eyes: Keratoconus, Early Detection, and Keratoconus Treatments

April 1, 2013

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Keratoconus

Crosslinking , Keratoconus , Keratoconus advice , Keratoconus diagnosis , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments

For those who have mastered the World Wide Web getting new information on Keratoconus treatment is relatively easy. Knowledge is one of the best ways to help save your eyes for the often devastating news of a Keratoconus diagnosis. As we are sure you’ve heard many say that early detection is key in Keratoconus treatment, understanding that Keratoconus is a progressive condition which gets worse over time is the number one reason to seek early treatment. The longer you go without treatment the more detrimental the condition can become.

When you get regular screenings you are ensuring that you find conditions such as Keratoconus at an early enough stage to greatly improve your quality of vision and protect your eyes. In essence you are saying that your eyes matter to you. The progression of Keratoconus can be slowed greatly, even reversed in some cases. The benefits of the new advancements in treatments for Keratoconus are growing, and though they have been out for at least 10 years many are still showing more benefits today. Below are some of the new advanced treatments of Keratoconus. Take a look for yourself.

Symptoms:

Blurred vision not improved by glasses or contacts

Frequent eye rubbing

Frequent changing of prescriptions
Increasing astigmatism

Glare or halos around lights making it difficult to drive at night

Increased sensitivity to light

Double vision

Keratoconus Treatments:

Glasses or contact lenses – Changing prescriptions frequently may be needed

Holcomb C3-R ® – strengthens the cornea and slows/stops progression of Keratoconus

INTACS for Keratoconus – helps decrease the bulging cornea and improve vision
CK (Conductive Keratoplasty for astigmatism correction)
Intra Ocular Lenses – Visian ICL (insertable contact lens – permanent – no maintenance)

It is up to you to educate yourself. Ensuring that you find the questions you need to take care of yourself can improve not only the quality of your vision but also the quality of your life!

Dr. Boxer Wachler, MD is a renowned eye surgeon specializing in Keratoconus treatments. His is considered one the Keratoconus specialist.

Watch an education and informative video about Keratoconus treatments: www.FixesYourKeratoconus.com

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

How Does Keratoconus Affect Your Daily Life?

March 15, 2013

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus stages , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments

Keratoconus is a debilitating condition that effects not only you but those around you. Those who have had family member who have been diagnosed with this condition understand what it is like to watch someone who is suffering from it. But how does it affect your daily life when you are the one with the condition?

Symptoms of Keratoconus include frequent eye prescriptions changes, eye pain, dry eyes, and blurred vision. In addition you may suffer from changed night vision over its progression. At first the thought of these symptoms don’t seem too troubling but how does it affect your daily activities?

In the early stages:

Early stages of Keratoconus symptoms are mild and some of the most common symptoms are frequent eye prescription changes. This can be a light hindrance to your daily life by the increasing frequency in which you are visiting your eye care professional. Typically you have mild or no real symptoms at this stage.

Progression of Keratoconus:

Over time more symptoms develop with signs including increased blurred vision, more frequent need to rub the eyes, dry eyes or irritation, and eye pain. These symptoms can affect your ability to drive your vehicle, the inability to see clearer, and reduction of your daily activities.

How do you prepare for these changes?

Report changes to your eye care professionals as soon as they appear.

Avoid rubbing your eyes at any time

Use over the counter Artificial Tears to fight against dry eyes

Avoid driving during night time hours

Talk with your eye care professional about effective preventative measures

While Keratoconus is a condition that may not be avoided, early detection and regular exams can improve your treatment options. Understanding the condition can also improve your ability to cope with the symptoms and stages of the condition as it progresses. This condition affects not just the patient but those who are around them as well such as family and friends. Talking about it and your treatment plan can help improve the emotional health of everyone during the course of its treatment.

Seeking treatment early to stabilize your vision will help reduce the likelihood of experiencing significant vision loss and impact on your daily life. Holcomb C3-R® developed by Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler in 2003 has been proven to stabilize and stop vision loss from this condition. The non-invasive treatment has been successful in patients as young as 9 years old. Early detection and treatment can help patients maintain good quality vision in soft contacts or glasses and avoid vision loss. As the condition progresses patients will need to undergo more treatments to improve their vision.

Watch the inspiration story of a 13 yr old girl who had these advance treatment to improve her life and return to the daily activities that she enjoys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZFC8NOp_hI&feature=share&list=PL14E3E9271888A2F4

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Can You Benefit From Using INTACS for Keratoconus?

March 1, 2013

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Intacs Keratoconus

Intacs , Keratoconus , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Management , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments

INTACS have been used for Keratoconus since 1999 with many benefits. Keratoconus is a progressive condition that causes the cornea of the eye to change shape distorting the overall vision of the patient. While there is no guarantee that the treatment alone with restore your vision, it has been effective in improving the quality of vision for many patients.

INTACS can be used in combination with other procedures including the Holcomb C3-R ® (Corneal Collagen Crosslinking) and CK. These procedures can be done in a day and for those who have to travel it can generally be done with a 3 day stay in Beverly Hills. The benefits of these procedures include little to no pain, and a quick recovery. For those trying INTACS for Keratoconus below are some additional benefits.

The procedure is outpatient

Less invasive then having a corneal transplant

Provides you with an Improved Quality of Vision

Most Commonly takes less than 10 minutes per eye

Removable if the prescription changes, or removal is needed for other reasons

While there is still no cause for Keratoconus many can benefit from the advancements made over the past 10-15 years. Can you benefit from INTACS for Keratoconus? In most case the answer is: Yes! While you may need some additional treatments to get the most out of your treatment INTACS can help you on your way. The treatments for Keratoconus in the past have been invasive, painful, and have a longer recover time. However today these new treatments improve the recovery time and reduce your discomfort as well. Do your research and judge for yourself.

Watch the inspirational stories featured in the media, bringing attention to these vision improving and life changing treatments: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AD9AMnDKhdg&feature=share&list=PL14E3E9271888A2F4

Take the time to look into this great procedure by visiting www.AmKC.org

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

True Testimonials: Meeting Ian Barnes

February 15, 2013

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Intacs

Intacs , Keratoconus , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus symptoms

Ian Barnes was diagnosed with a condition called Keratoconus. This is a common progressive condition of the eye. Keratoconus causes a bulging of the cornea which distorts the patient’s vision over time. Ian suffered from a more moderate stage of Keratoconus which began to cause difficulties with his being able to study and ready for long periods. His vision especially bothered him at night causing him trouble driving.

Ian’s vision at night caused intense double vision, halos, and trouble seeing the road in front of him. The light sensitivity made it difficult for him to focus on the road. Ian began to avoid driving at night due to these problems. These are common problems for the more progressed stages of Keratoconus.

Ian’s doctors gave him a treatment plan that many had heard before Corneal Transplant. Corneal transplants are the older techniques of treatment for Keratoconus. With new technologies this painful and invasive Cornea Transplant procedure is often not needed. In Ian’s case the use of INTACS gave him a chance for better sight within an hour. INTACS are tiny inserts placed within the layers of the cornea to prove support to the weakened area. INTACS helps to reduce the bulging area of the cornea that causes vision distortion and loss.

This gave Ian an immediate improvement to his vision. However one more step was required. While the INTACS started his road to recovery, an additional procedure would help to ensure stability in his new found vision over the coming years.

The Holcomb C3-R ® (Corneal Collagen Crosslinking) is another procedure that will give improvement over the next few months. A special eye drop solution composed of Riboflavin, a natural vitamin in our bodies, along with other components is applied to the cornea. The special solution is activated by the use of a Ultra-Violet light. This process takes about 30 minutes. The Holcomb C3-R ® strengthens the fibers of the cornea strengthen the cornea to halt the progression of Keratoconus. Holcomb C3-R® works in tandem with INTACS to help maximize the flattening of the bulge and improving the overall vision of the patient.

Ian’s experience was remarkable and allowed him to see better than he had in years. Ian said “I’m speechless; these procedure will give me a new life. I am so thankful to Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler for developing these treatments.” The procedures provided improved quality of vision that was almost lost. New techniques continue to emerge in the treatment of Keratoconus. Today a diagnosis of Keratoconus is not the end of the world and new vision can be found.

Diagnosing Keratoconus early can give you and your eye care professional a more accurate treatment plan and a step in the right direction. Below are some symptoms of Keratoconus. If you have any symptoms or a family history of Keratoconus let your eye care professional know.

Symptoms:

Frequent Rubbing of the Eyes

Frequent Changes to your prescription

Blurred Vision

Halos around lights; difficult with night vision

Decreased night vision

Learn more about Ian’s story that was featured on Dr. Phil’s medical talk show, The Doctor’s http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr2DeAQA-DI&feature=share&list=PL14E3E9271888A2F4

Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD is a renowned eye surgeon specializing in Keratoconus treatments, and other procedures. If you would like to know more about this condition you can request a Free Webinar discussing these advanced treatments: www.FixesYourKeratoconus.com

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Facing Dry Eyes as a Symptom of Keratoconus

February 1, 2013

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Keratoconus

dry eyes , Keratoconus , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus Signs , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatments , Treatment options

Keratoconus is a progressive condition that causes loss of vision, vision disturbances, and changes in the quality of life of those who suffer from the condition. There are several symptoms of Keratoconus that cause daily issues for its patients. Learning what symptoms may flare and how to deal with them will allow you to gain some of your life back.

One symptom that flares frequently is Dry eyes. This symptom causes irritation, redness, and sometimes excessive rubbing of the eyes. In more serious cases it can cause pain for the patient and making wearing contact lenses very difficult. Dry eyes is a reduction of the production of tears by your eyes naturally.

There are several reasons one can develop dry eyes such as:

Medication changes

Conditions – Like Keratoconus, diabetes, Cataracts, etc..

Reduction in the blinking of the eyes (for instance in writers)

Certain procedures

Treatments:

1 Eye Drops

Typically treatments for dry eyes consist of over the counter eye drops, such as Artificial Tears. Yes, get the red out products can help reduce the amount of irritation in your eye, but there is medication in this eye drop that is not good for prolonged use. Artificial tears work the best as they rehydrate the eye provide the moisture in places that your eye has lost them. These are not permanent fixes for treatments, finding the initial cause of your dry eye and fixing that problem will help your symptoms out the most.

2 Supplements

Flaxseed Oil or Fish Oil supplements taken daily can help decrease dry eyes. Consult your doctor about taking these supplements before you try them.

Tips To Help Relieve Your Dry Eye:

Increase the amount of breaks you take when starring at the computer screen.

Avoid excessive eye rubbing

Get regular eye examinations

Wear protective lenses when going out

Use Artificial Tears

Consider taking Flaxseed Oil or Fish Oil supplements

Remember dry eye is generally a symptom, and symptoms are best relieved by finding the underline cause. Let your eye care professional know all your symptoms each time you visit. If dry eye is a big disturbance ask them what you can do to reduce the symptom. Improving the overall quality of life for the patient is the doctors main objective for treatment, so communication is key to a great treatment plan.

For more information regarding dry eyes visit: www.dryeyepain.com

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Experiencing Disturbances in Night Vision With Keratoconus

January 15, 2013

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Keratoconus

Keratocons , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Management , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatment options

If your experiencing disturbances in your vision during the day since your diagnosis of Keratoconus, we can only imagine how your night vision is doing. Unfortunately loss of night vision is a symptom of Keratoconus, having it and dealing with it however are two very different things.

Since 1999 there has been new advances in assistance those with Keratoconus. In the past, patients merely waited for the Keratoconus to get too bad for contacts or glasses. A painful and invasive procedure called a Corneal Transplant, was the only option until INTACS for Keratoconus was developed in 1999 and Holcomb C3-R ® (cornea collagen crosslinking) was developed in 2003.

Modern medicine and several innovative procedures have helped those who suffer from Keratoconus improve their chances of not having a corneal transplant to help deal with their worsening symptoms.

Below are some tips to assist you with your night vision:

Drive in well lite areas at all times: As your vision goes it will be harder to see, you may not know that your vision is getting worse right away so driving in well lite areas (good street lights) regularly will help if you are struggling.

Drive with a buddy: If you are not very certain on how your vision has been effected at night, take a buddy with you. Someone you trust can help you and work with you in deciding if you should be on the road at night, or tell you what problems you maybe experiencing while driving.

Ask you doctor: as your Keratoconus progresses asking your doctor if it is safe for you to be on the road should be a typical exam question. This will help you determine where you are in your condition and if you need assistance with your night driving.

Finding out the degree of vision loss when you have Keratoconus is important. Asking your doctor these important questions will help you determine whether its safe for you to drive could save your life and the lives of others. The frustration of coping with Keratoconus is hard on all who suffer, your not alone. Finding a Keratoconus support group can help you cope with your loss of vision, and improve the overall quality of your life.

For more information on Keratoconus support groups visit:www.AmKC.org or www.keratoconus-group.org.uk

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

Daily Life: Dealing With Headaches as a Symptom of Keratoconus

December 15, 2012

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Keratoconus

Keratoconus , Keratoconus advice , Keratoconus Inserts , Keratoconus Risk Factors , Keratoconus symptoms , Keratoconus treatment options , Keratoconus treatments

There are many symptoms of Keratoconus. Managing the symptoms can be just as hard as dealing with the complications of the disease itself. One of the harder and more progressive symptoms of Keratoconus is headaches. While proper management of headaches can help you over the course of time, finding a way to cope with them can be even more challenging.

There are many reasons you may be having increased headaches including:

Sensitivity to Light
Eye Strain- as your vision decreases
Dry eyes
Decreased Night Vision

The increase of headaches can affect your daily activities. This can hinder you in the present as well as the future as the condition progresses. Finding an effective way to improve your symptoms can help you in the long run.

Coping With Headaches:

Many of us experience headaches regularly. For those who have a tendency to get migraines, or sinus headaches dealing with the pain is one of the first things we think about, however preventative measures are more effective.

Below are some preventative strategies that may help you manage your headaches as your Keratoconus progresses.

The use of UV protected eye wear:

Wearing sunglasses in the summer seems normal, but the effectiveness of wearing UV sunglasses throughout the year is great. They not only protect your eyes from further damage from the sun but also shields your light sensitive eyes as your Keratoconus progresses. They also keep you from straining in the light throughout the day.

Eye drops & Other Over the Counter Remedies:

Some relief can be found in artificial tears, and over the counter eye drops, however these are merely temporary relief and unless used daily they don’t offer you effective preventative remedies. Many people get headaches from straining of the eyes, or dry eyes and getting to the core of the cause of your headaches can give you more benefit that merely covering it up.

Relaxation & Meditation as a Preventative Measure:

Stress is a big trigger for many types of headaches. Many people with progressive conditions such as Keratoconus have a hard time coping with things changing in their lives and feel the stress. Learning to use some relaxation techniques such as palming can help you cope with your daily challenges in turn preventing future headaches one day at a time.

Palming:

Palming can assist you in relaxation throughout the day, relieving stress and preventing your headaches. Palming is a relaxation tool used at various intervals throughout the day. When you are in a quite private location, simply lay flat on the floor and place the palms of your hands across your eyes. Do this for intervals of 10-15 minutes throughout the day.

Eye Strain:

One of the most common of headaches is eye strain, often a result of changing prescription. This is the frustration facing those with Keratoconus, constant changing prescription. The most improtant remedy is Homcomb C3-R ® (cornea collage crosslinking). The Holcomb C3-R ® procedure helps stabilize the cornea and stop the ever changing glasses prescription.

You can learn more about Keratocons treatments here: http://www.AMKCA.org

Other information about eye strain can be found here http://www.medicinenet.com/eye_strain/article.htm

For more information about keratoconus visit the American Keratoconus Association

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