What is Keratoconus?
The cornea is the transparent, dome-like top layer of the eye. It acts as a lens, focusing and directing the light rays that come into the eye. Keratoconus is a progressive disease that causes the normally round cornea to become thin as it bulges into a cone shape, and can occur in one or both eyes. This change affects how light is refracted onto the retina, causing your vision to appear blurry or distorted. Our ophthalmology team is extensively experienced in diagnosing and treating keratoconus. We offer advanced ocular solutions to help slow down the progression of this disease to preserve the individual's vision. Contact Kirk Eye Center in River Forest or Gurnee, IL to schedule an appointment for an eye examination and to learn more about treatments offered.
Keratoconus Symptoms
Keratoconus develops over time, which can make it difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Patients who have inherited the disease typically notice symptoms beginning in their teens or early 20s. Individuals who have acquired keratoconus through external factors may not discover signs until later in life. Common symptoms include:
- Blurry, distorted, or cloudy vision
- Double vision
- Astigmatism
- Nearsightedness
- Sensitivity to light
- Vision loss
- Frequent changes in eyeglasses prescription
Keratoconus Causes
Researchers are not sure of the exact cause of keratoconus, but it is usually an inherited condition. It can also occur from environmental or outer risk factors, such as chronic sun exposure, corneal thinning after eye surgery, excessive eye rubbing, or incorrectly fitted contact lenses. Our office recommends having regular eye exams, especially for patients who have a family history of keratoconus.
Kirk Eye Center Reviews
Great overall experience with my Lasik procedure for both my eyes. Dr. Kirk & the staff were fantastic throughout the entire process. I'm so pumped that I don't have to wear contacts or glasses ever again!
This is the second time I’ve been to Kirk Eye Center on Harlem. I could not be more pleased. I’ve never had to wait more than a minute or 2 after I arrive. Everyone is friendly and helpful. I’ve seen the technician Rose and Dr Kirk Jr both times and enjoyed being assisted by both. There is even plenty of parking. Glad to have them caring for my diabetic and other needs
This is absolutely no exaggeration. Dr Tyler Kirk saved my right eye. He is the reason I have vision in that eye. I will be a Kirk Eye Center customer for life!
Gurnee Kirk is my "go to home office". Recently had the Femto/Lasik cataract surgery at the surgical center in River Forest. I cannot begin to tell you how professional and yet personal everyone was I came in contact with. From the doctors and technicians, to staff and even the terrific van driver. Everything went so smoothly and I was informed every inch of the way in a very successful procedure. Even the followups being turned over to my long time Optometrist just down the street from me. Five stars is not enough... twenty or more is necessary. Choose Kirk Eye Center, you'll always be grateful you did. Darrell May, Antioch IL.
Had cataract surgery on both eyes and they took very good care of me would highly recommend them.
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Keratoconus Treatment Options
We offer a variety of treatment options for keratoconus to help you attain better vision. Prior to treatment, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination to evaluate the progression of your condition. After an accurate diagnosis, the correct treatment will be determined. If you are still in the early phase of the disease, we may give you a prescription for glasses or contacts. In more advanced stages of keratoconus, a corneal transplant may need to be performed.
Seek Help Today
Keratoconus can lead to severe loss of vision so it is important to have the disease detected early and receive proper treatment. If you have experienced abnormal sight or any sudden vision changes, we encourage you to schedule a visit to Kirk Eye Center in River Forest or Gurnee, IL. The team of experienced ophthalmologists can determine the correct treatment to best preserve your vision.