Keratoconus, a condition marked by the progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, remains somewhat enigmatic in its origins. A blend of hormonal changes, genetic factors, and environmental influences is believed to contribute to its development.
The onset of keratoconus often coincides with puberty, a period of significant hormonal shifts, and its progression typically stabilizes around the age of 30. This temporal pattern suggests a potential link between hormonal changes and the progression of keratoconus.
While there's a belief in the genetic predisposition to keratoconus, the likelihood of direct inheritance is relatively low, with less than a 10% chance among immediate relatives of affected individuals. Interestingly, the majority of keratoconus patients do not report a family history of the condition, highlighting the complexity of its genetic aspects.
Environmental triggers, particularly allergies that lead to frequent eye rubbing, have been implicated in the exacerbation of keratoconus. The mechanical stress from rubbing can weaken the cornea, especially when combined with the oxidative stress from an impaired ability to process free radicals, potentially accelerating corneal degradation.
At ClearView Eye & Laser Medical Center, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman offers leading-edge treatments like Collagen Crosslinking (CXL) and Intacs Eye Implants to manage keratoconus effectively. These solutions aim not only to halt the progression of the disease but also to improve visual quality and comfort.
For a comprehensive understanding of keratoconus and personalized treatment options, contact ClearView at (858) 452-3937 or via email.
