Best Keratoconus Doctors in Delhi

Keratoconus is an eye disorder that primarily affects the cornea, the transparent, protective layer at the front of the eye. In this condition, the cornea thins out and bulges into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision. The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Eye rubbing and certain conditions, such as atopic diseases, have also been associated with the development of keratoconus. It typically starts during the teenage years and gradually progresses over time.

In Delhi, where environmental factors like pollution and dust are prevalent, keratoconus cases may increase. Therefore, seeking treatment from the best doctors adept at treating keratoconus at renowned hospitals like Apollo Hospitals is essential. The specialists treating keratoconus offer the best treatment depending on the patient's specific condition and stage of the disease.

Types/Stages of Keratoconus

Keratoconus can manifest in various forms:

• Subclinical Keratoconus: This type is detectable through corneal imaging or topography, revealing early signs of keratoconus without visible symptoms.

• Clinical Keratoconus: This type is characterised by notable corneal thinning and protrusion, leading to visible disturbances in vision.

• Advanced Keratoconus: In this stage, the cornea becomes significantly thin and conical, resulting in severe visual impairment.

• Acute Hydrops: This is a rare complication of keratoconus where sudden swelling in the cornea occurs due to fluid influx, leading to abrupt vision blurring.

Symptoms of Keratoconus

Keratoconus is associated with the following symptoms:

• Blurred or distorted vision

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Difficulty in seeing at night

• Frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions

• Sudden worsening of vision

• Eye redness or swelling

• Halos or streaking around light sources

Tests to Diagnose Keratoconus

To diagnose keratoconus, the best doctors specialising in keratoconus treatment use the following tests:

• Corneal Topography: This non-invasive technique is used to precisely map the cornea's surface curvature and identify any irregularities.

• Slit-lamp Biomicroscopy: A slit-lamp microscope is used to examine the cornea for signs of thinning, scarring, or other abnormalities.

• Refraction Test: This test measures the extent of vision distortion from the keratoconus, aiding in accurate lens prescription for improved visual acuity.

• Pachymetry: A test that measures the corneal thickness, as thinning is a primary characteristic of keratoconus.

• Dilated Eye Exam: Dilating pupils allows for a thorough assessment of the retina and optic nerve, aiding in detecting associated conditions or complications.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Keratoconus at Apollo Hospitals, Delhi

At Apollo Hospitals in Delhi, the best doctors treating keratoconus, provide a comprehensive range of treatments, including:

• Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: In the early stages, regular eyeglasses or soft contact lenses may help correct vision.

• Corneal Cross-Linking: This minimally invasive procedure involves the application of riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops, followed by exposure to ultraviolet light to strengthen the cornea and halt the keratoconus progression .

• Intracorneal Ring Segments: Small semi-circular plastic rings are surgically inserted into the cornea to reshape it and improve vision.

• Phakic Intraocular Lenses: Implantable lenses may be used to correct vision when contact lenses are ineffective.

• Corneal Transplants: In advanced stages, a corneal transplant may be needed to replace the damaged tissue with healthy donor tissue.

• Conductive Keratoplasty: A procedure using radiofrequency energy to reshape the cornea and improve vision.