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Keratoconus is a disease of the cornea that often affects young people, sometimes without their knowing. Diagnosed early, it is treated very well. This guide explains simply what keratoconus is, how to recognize it, and what solutions are available today in Fez and in Morocco.
What is keratoconus?
The cornea is the transparent “window” at the front of the eye. Normally, it has a regular, rounded shape. In keratoconus, the cornea gradually thins and deforms, taking on a cone shape. This deformation causes blurred and distorted vision, which is no longer perfectly corrected by simple glasses.
Keratoconus generally appears in adolescence or young adulthood, and can progress for several years before stabilizing.
What are the symptoms of keratoconus?
- Blurred or distorted vision, even with recent glasses;
- Frequent changes of prescription (sight “drops” from one visit to the next);
- Significant or irregular astigmatism that increases;
- Sensitivity to light and glare, especially at night;
- Double images or halos around lights.
These signs don’t necessarily mean you have keratoconus, but they warrant a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist.
Who is affected? The risk factors
Keratoconus is more common than people think, particularly in young people. Certain factors increase the risk:
- Eye rubbing : this is the most important factor that can be acted on. Rubbing your eyes regularly (allergies, fatigue, screens) weakens the cornea;
- Eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis) that prompt eye rubbing;
- Family history : there is a genetic component;
- Certain associated systemic diseases .
How is keratoconus diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on a key examination: the corneal topography. This painless, quick examination produces a precise “map” of the shape of your cornea and detects deformations, even early ones, before vision is affected. It is the reference examination to screen for, confirm and monitor keratoconus.
Our centre in Fez is equipped with a suite ofadvanced eye imaging (corneal topography, OCT, ocular ultrasound) allowing a precise diagnosis on site.
Keratoconus treatments, by stage
1. Glasses and specialty lenses
At the early stage, glasses may be enough. When the astigmatism becomes irregular, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses generally offer a markedly higher quality of vision than glasses. Fitting them requires specific expertise.
2. Corneal cross-linking (CXL)
When keratoconus progresses, cross-linking is the reference treatment to stop the progression. It consists of strengthening the cornea using vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and controlled UV rays. The earlier it is performed, the more it preserves visual capital: this is precisely why early screening matters.
3. Intracorneal rings
In some cases, small rings inserted into the cornea make it possible to regularize its shape and improve vision. The indication depends on the stage and the topography.
4. Corneal transplant
Reserved for very advanced stages, corneal transplant is performed in certain university hospital centres. If your case requires it, a precise evaluation makes it possible to refer you to the appropriate centre.
Living with keratoconus: the right habits
- Never rub your eyes — that’s rule number 1. If your eyes itch (allergy), see a doctor: the allergy can be treated;
- Keep your regular check-ups with topography to monitor progression;
- Have brothers, sisters and children screened if there is keratoconus in the family;
- See a doctor quickly if your vision changes.
Frequently asked questions
Does keratoconus cause blindness?
No. Keratoconus does not cause total blindness. Managed in time, it allows good vision to be kept in the great majority of cases.
Is cross-linking painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia (drops). Discomfort and sensitivity are common in the first few days, during healing.
Can you have LASIK when you have keratoconus?
No, LASIK is contraindicated in keratoconus. That is precisely why corneal topography is essential before any refractive surgery.
Keratoconus screening and treatment in Fez, Morocco
The Dr Oulehri Hassan eye-care centre, in Fez, specializes in keratoconus management : screening by corneal topography, fitting of specialty lenses, cross-linking and personalized follow-up.
Do you have a doubt about your vision or keratoconus in the family? Book an appointment for an assessment, or contact us at 0532-023012 / 0615-557141 (WhatsApp).