The Best Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge, leading to blurred vision and other vision problems. It usually affects both eyes and typically starts to develop in individuals in their late teens or early 20s. While eyeglasses and regular contact lenses can help correct vision to some extent, those with keratoconus rely on specialized contact lenses to manage their symptoms.

The Different Types of Contact Lenses for Keratoconus

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are made of a firm, oxygen-permeable material that maintains its shape on the cornea, improving vision and reducing distortion caused by keratoconus. They also allow oxygen to pass through the cornea, improving eye health. While RGP lenses can take some time to get used to, they are the most common type of contact lens used to treat keratoconus.

Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than RGP lenses, covering the entire cornea and resting on the white part of the eye known as the sclera. They provide a more comfortable fit than RGP lenses, as they don’t come into contact with the cornea. Scleral lenses can correct moderate to severe keratoconus and other corneal irregularities and are an excellent option for those who have difficulty tolerating RGP lenses.

Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine the excellent visual acuity of RGP lenses and the comfort of soft lenses. They have a rigid center that corrects vision and a soft, comfortable outer ring that molds to the shape of the eye. Hybrid lenses can correct severe keratoconus and offer a comfortable fit to those who have difficulty tolerating RGP lenses.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for You

Choosing the right contact lenses for keratoconus depends on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences. Your eye doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the best type of contact lenses to correct your vision and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

If you have keratoconus, specialized contact lenses can help you manage your symptoms and improve your vision. RGP lenses, scleral lenses, and hybrid lenses are all excellent options that can correct mild to severe keratoconus. Consult with your eye doctor to determine the best contact lenses for you, and enjoy clearer, sharper vision!

• Important takeaways:
• Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge, leading to blurred vision and other vision problems.
• Specialized contact lenses, such as RGP lenses, scleral lenses, and hybrid lenses, can help correct vision and manage symptoms of keratoconus.
• Choosing the right type of contact lenses depends on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.