Best Keratoconus Doctors in Chennai

Keratoconus is an eye condition that alters the cornea's round shape, thinning and bulging it into a cone-like shape, causing distorted vision. Its causes are unclear, but genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors likely contribute. The onset usually begins during the teenage years and gradually advances over time. Treatment options vary from corrective glasses and contact lenses to surgical interventions such as corneal cross-linking or transplants, depending on the severity of the condition.

In Chennai, an increasing number of residents are seeking help from specialists adept at treating keratoconus to manage this condition. Apollo Hospitals, in response to this growing demand, has some of the best doctors specialising in keratoconus treatment, offering comprehensive care and leading treatment options. The best doctors at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, stress the importance of early diagnosis in effectively managing keratoconus, a topic we will delve into further in the next section.

Types/Stages of Keratoconus

Keratoconus can be classified into several types based on the severity and characteristics of the condition:

• Subclinical Keratoconus: This stage shows early signs of keratoconus in corneal imaging or topography but may not present any visual symptoms.

• Clinical Keratoconus: During this stage, the cornea noticeably thins and bulges, resulting in visual disturbances such as blurred or distorted vision.

• Advanced Keratoconus: The cornea becomes significantly thin and conical, leading to severe visual impairment and irregular astigmatism, impacting daily activities.

• Acute Hydrops: This rare complication arises when sudden swelling occurs in the cornea due to fluid influx, causing rapid onset of vision blurring and discomfort.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus presents with a range of symptoms, including:

• Distorted or blurred vision

• Photophobia

• Night vision difficulty

• Frequent eyeglass or contact lens prescription changes

• Sudden worsening or clouding of vision

• Eye redness or swelling

• Eye Irritation or Headaches

Tests to Diagnose Keratoconus

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the best doctors specialising in keratoconus treatment conduct the following diagnostic tests to diagnose the condition:

• Corneal Topography: This advanced imaging technique precisely measures the surface curvature of the cornea, aiding in identifying any irregularities or steepening characteristics of the keratoconus.

• Slit-lamp Biomicroscopy: This uses a slit-lamp microscope to detect corneal thinning, scarring, or other abnormalities.

• Refraction Test: This standard vision test evaluates the extent of vision distortion caused by keratoconus.

• Pachymetry: This non-invasive procedure measures the thickness of the cornea, which is crucial as thinning is a characteristic feature of keratoconus.

• Dilated Eye Exam: By dilating the pupils, doctors can examine the retina and optic nerve for any signs of associated conditions, such as retinal abnormalities or optic nerve damage.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Keratoconus at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, the specialists treating keratoconus, provide a range of treatment options, which include:

• Eyeglasses or contact lenses: In the early stages, these can temporarily correct vision by addressing the irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus.

• Corneal cross-linking: A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the cornea by making collagen bonds stronger, which can halt the progression of keratoconus.

• Intracorneal ring segments: Semi-circular plastic rings surgically inserted into the cornea to reshape it and improve vision.

• Phakic intraocular lenses: Implantable lenses are used when contact lenses are no longer effective, providing a more permanent solution for vision correction.

• Corneal transplant: For advanced keratoconus, a corneal transplant can replace the damaged corneal tissue, restoring vision.