Keratoconus in The Villages, FL

What is keratoconus?

The cornea is normally round, like a dome. In keratoconus it thins and bulges outward, and the shape starts to resemble a cone. This changes how light enters the eye.

The changes typically begin in the teen years and settle by mid-adulthood. Many people first notice that their glasses never seem quite right.

Symptoms

You may have blurry or distorted vision. Nearsightedness and astigmatism may grow, and standard glasses cannot fully correct them. Vision can also get worse over time.

Who is at risk?

The exact cause is not known. Genes and the environment both seem to play a part. Rubbing the eyes hard can damage the cornea. Also, about one in three people with keratoconus has allergies, which can lead to more rubbing.

Most people with keratoconus have no family history of it, but it can run in families. If you often need new glasses, a baseline measurement is a sensible first step.

What a keratoconus visit looks like

When you come in for Keratoconus in The Villages, first tell us how your sight has changed. For example, mention glasses that never feel right. Then Dr. Russell measures the curve of your cornea, which is called keratometry. Next, he looks at the cornea with a slit lamp. Corneal mapping can show the shape in more detail.

Bring your current glasses and any older prescriptions, because they show how your eyes changed. Also tell us if your eyes itch or you rub them often.

Questions to ask your eye doctor

For example, ask whether your cornea has changed since your last measurement. You can also ask which lenses may suit your eyes, and when you should see a corneal specialist. In addition, ask how to handle itching without rubbing. Then ask how often to return, so we can track any change.

A sudden painful, red eye or a sudden drop in vision needs same-day care. Sudden flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, a curtain over your vision, sudden vision loss or a chemical in the eye: call (352) 399-5412 right away, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Everyday tips

Because hard rubbing can damage the cornea, try to stop. If itching is the trigger, tell us, so we can talk about the cause. Allergies can add to the urge to rub. Also keep a record of your glasses prescriptions. Then you and your eye doctor can see how your sight has changed.

What helps

Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. Your eye doctor decides which type of lenses or other care suits your eyes. A corneal specialist may advise a procedure when you need one. Avoiding eye rubbing is important, and managing allergies that cause itching can help.

Help With Keratoconus in The Villages

Our care for Keratoconus in The Villages starts with measuring the cornea. Dr. Russell measures corneal curvature and watches for changes at each visit. We can discuss lens options. When you need a procedure, we refer you to a trusted corneal specialist and co-manage your care. Our office does not perform surgery.

Call (352) 399-5412 or request an appointment at 2478 Burnsed Blvd, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your eye doctor about your own eyes.

Common questions

Can glasses fix keratoconus?

Standard glasses cannot fully correct the irregular shape of the cornea. Your doctor can talk with you about other options.

Why should I stop rubbing my eyes?

Hard eye rubbing can damage the cornea. Tell your doctor if itching is the cause, because allergies are common in people with keratoconus.

Does keratoconus run in families?

Most people with it have no family history, though it can be inherited. Your doctor can ask about your family's eye health.