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As keratoconus progresses, the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, causing significant visual distortions. You may notice that objects appear smeared or doubled, and your vision may fluctuate unexpectedly, becoming cloudy or suddenly worsening. Even with corrective lenses, fine details can remain difficult to see, making daily activities like reading or driving challenging.

Bright lights, glare, and reflections may become overwhelming, particularly at night. Many people with keratoconus see halos around streetlights or struggle with oncoming headlights while driving. Indoor lighting can also seem harsh, making it uncomfortable to be in well-lit environments for extended periods.

Excessive and forceful eye rubbing can weaken the cornea, accelerating the progression of keratoconus. The cornea is a delicate, dome-shaped structure essential for clear vision, and repetitive rubbing can cause microscopic damage, leading to thinning and bulging. Many individuals rub their eyes due to chronic allergies, dry eyes, or irritation, unknowingly increasing their risk. To prevent unnecessary damage, individuals prone to eye rubbing should manage allergies with antihistamines, use lubricating eye drops, and adopt healthier eye care habits.

Keratoconus has a strong genetic component, with approximately 1 in 10 individuals with the condition having a close relative—such as a parent or sibling—who also has it. If there is a family history of keratoconus, regular eye check-ups are crucial, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood when symptoms are most likely to appear. Early screening, including corneal topography, can help detect subtle changes before significant vision loss occurs. Although not every person with a family history will develop keratoconus, genetic predisposition significantly increases the likelihood.

Repeated eye trauma, including injuries or prolonged use of ill-fitting contact lenses, can increase the risk of keratoconus. Poorly fitted lenses may exert uneven pressure on the cornea, gradually altering its shape and leading to thinning. This risk is higher with rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses if not properly adjusted. Regular visits to an eye care professional can help ensure a proper fit, minimizing unnecessary strain on the cornea. Individuals who experience discomfort or irritation while wearing contact lenses should seek immediate professional assessment to prevent long-term damage.

People with asthma, eczema, hay fever, and severe allergies have a significantly higher risk of developing keratoconus. These conditions often cause persistent eye inflammation, itching, and irritation, leading to excessive eye rubbing, which is one of the most damaging behaviors for the cornea. Chronic inflammation weakens corneal collagen, increasing the likelihood of structural thinning and bulging. Managing allergic conditions through medications, avoiding known allergens, and using preservative-free artificial tears can help protect the cornea and prevent unnecessary damage.

In the early stages of keratoconus, vision can often be corrected with glasses or soft toric contact lenses, which help compensate for mild corneal irregularities. While this option works for mild cases, it becomes less effective as the condition progresses, since the cornea continues to thin and bulge, leading to increased distortion.

When glasses or soft lenses no longer provide clear vision, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses or scleral lenses become the next step. These lenses create a smooth optical surface, helping to correct the irregular shape of the cornea and providing sharper vision.