Exploring Keratoconus Causes: Why is My Cornea Bulging?

Keratoconus is an eye condition that leads to outward bulging of the exterior eye layer known as cornea.

With the advancement of this eye condition, your cornea becomes thin and turns into a cone-like shape.

But what can be the cause of this eye condition? And is it preventable?

Let us proceed with this informative article to explore the answers to these questions.

Common Keratoconus Causes

The exact cause of Keratoconus is unknown.

Keratoconus results from a loss of collagen in the cornea. But, the exact mechanism behind this process is still unclear.

However, various factors such as genetics, eye allergies, and other medical conditions might be linked to the development of Keratoconus.

Let us discuss these possible causes of Keratoconus in detail below.

Eye Allergies

Source: Wachira_Wacharapathom_from_Getty_Images

Eye allergies may contribute to the development of Keratoconus.

Statistics reveal that about one-third of Keratoconus-affected patients have allergic disorders.

Additionally, inflammation due to eye allergies may also contribute to tissue changes in the cornea.

The symptoms of eye allergies often include frequent rubbing of the eyes, which is a major risk factor for Keratoconus.

Genetics

Genetics might also lead to the development of Keratoconus.

In fact, researchers have concluded that Keratoconus is majorly hereditary. 

About 10% of Keratoconus-affected people have a parent with the same eye condition. 

Therefore, individuals with a family history of Keratoconus are at a higher risk of developing the eye condition and should visit an eye doctor for regular eye checkup.

Eye Rubbing

Source: fixkes

Excessive eye rubbing is associated with an increased risk of Keratoconus. 

The additional stress on the cornea from eye rubbing may contribute to its thinning and distortion. 

However, researchers are still discussing whether eye rubbing is a cause of Keratoconus or merely a symptom of the initial discomfort linked to the condition.

Other Medical Conditions

Besides eye allergies, many other medical conditions may lead to Keratoconus.

For instance, Retinitis Pigmentosa is a hereditary eye condition that often progresses rapidly.

Research indicates that this eye condition might be a significant factor in the development of Keratoconus.

Besides this condition, connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Marfan syndrome are also linked with an elevated risk of Keratoconus.

How to Manage Keratoconus

At present, there is no proven way to cure Keratoconus completely.

However, medical treatment for Keratoconus is needed to prevent the progression of this eye condition and gradually improve vision.

Most mild cases of Keratoconus can be managed by prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

However, for severe or rapidly progressing Keratoconus, surgical procedures such as Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) may be required.

Therefore, it is best to consult an eye doctor promptly if you experience Keratoconus symptoms.

Conclusion

Keratoconus is a serious eye condition that may lead to significant visual damage among individuals.

Hence, people may often wonder about the possible Keratoconus causes.

Currently, there is no definite known cause of Keratoconus.

But many other factors, such as eye allergies, genetics, and medical conditions such as Retinitis Pigmentosa, have been found to cause this eye condition.

Furthermore, constant eye rubbing might also lead to Keratoconus.

It should be noted that Keratoconus is not curable at present.

However, the symptoms may be managed by using corrective eyeglasses or surgical methods such as Corneal Collagen Cross-linking.

Therefore, it is important to visit an eye doctor for accurate diagnosis and prompt management of Keratoconus.

Frequently Asked Questions

• mayoclinic.org
• Webmd.com