Best Keratoconus Doctors in Bangalore

Keratoconus is an eye condition predominantly affecting the cornea, the transparent dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye. It causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to blurred or distorted vision. While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to be influenced by genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Certain behaviours and conditions, such as persistent eye rubbing and atopic diseases, are also associated with keratoconus. Symptoms include blurry vision, heightened light sensitivity, and night vision difficulties. Treatment options range from glasses to surgical procedures like corneal cross-linking and transplants, depending on the severity of the condition.

In Bangalore, the urban lifestyle and extensive exposure to digital screens have led to a significant increase in eye-related conditions, including keratoconus. Fortunately, Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore, with some of the best doctors adept at treating keratoconus and an array of sophisticated diagnostic tools available, offer comprehensive care for those grappling with this condition.

Types/Stages of Keratoconus

Keratoconus can be categorised into different stages based on severity:

• Subclinical Keratoconus: This is the initial stage, with early signs of keratoconus detected through corneal imaging but no visual symptoms.

• Clinical Keratoconus: This stage is characterised by noticeable corneal thinning and bulging, causing visual disturbances, such as blurred or distorted vision.

• Advanced Keratoconus: This is a severe stage where the cornea becomes significantly thin and conical, leading to severe visual impairment.

• Acute Hydrops: A rare complication where the cornea experiences sudden swelling due to fluid influx, causing sudden vision blur.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus manifests through several symptoms:

• Blurred or distorted vision

• Increased light sensitivity

• Difficulty in night vision

• Frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions

• Sudden vision worsening

• Eye irritation or itchiness

• Eye redness or swelling

Tests to Diagnose Keratoconus

At Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore, the best doctors specialising in keratoconus treatment diagnose the condition using the following methods:

• Corneal Topography: This non-invasive imaging technique maps the corneal surface curvature, allowing specialists treating keratoconus to identify any irregularities or steepening that are indicative of keratoconus.

• Slit-lamp Biomicroscopy: By using a slit-lamp microscope, this examination allows for a detailed view of the cornea to detect thinning, scarring, or other abnormalities.

• Refraction Test: This test assesses the extent of vision distortion caused by keratoconus and helps in determining the appropriate prescription for corrective lenses.

• Pachymetry: This procedure measures the thickness of the cornea, a key characteristic of keratoconus.

• Dilated Eye Exam: Allows a detailed retinal and optic nerve examination for any signs of associated conditions or complications.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Keratoconus at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore

At Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, the best doctors specialising in keratoconus treatment offer the following treatment options:

• Eyeglasses/Contact Lenses: Early stages can be corrected with regular eyeglasses or soft lenses, while advanced stages may require specially designed rigid gas-permeable lenses for better visual acuity.

• Corneal Cross-Linking: This is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the cornea and halts keratoconus progression through the application of riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops followed by ultraviolet light exposure.

• Intracorneal Ring Segments: Also known as corneal implants or Intacs, these small, semi-circular plastic rings, when surgically inserted into the cornea, reshape it and improve vision.

• Phakic Intraocular Lenses: Implantable lenses are used to correct vision when contact lenses are no longer effective.

• Keratometry: This measures the curvature of the cornea to identify irregular astigmatism associated with keratoconus.