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asthma, or atopic eye disease can break down the tissue of the cornea. • Eye rubbing: Rubbing your eyes hard over time can break down the cornea. It can also make keratoconus progress faster if you already have it. • Race: One study of more than 16,000 people with keratoconus found that people who are Black or Latino are roughly 50% more likely to get it than people who are white. SYMPTOMS OF KERATOCONUS The symptoms of keratoconus usually begin to manifest in late adolescence or early adulthood. Common signs include: • Blurred or Distorted Vision: As the cornea bulges and thins, it alters the way light enters the eye, leading to blurry or distorted vision. • Increased Sensitivity to Light: Individuals with keratoconus often become more sensitive to light, experiencing discomfort even in normal lighting conditions. • Frequent Changes in Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: Due to the progressive nature of keratoconus, individuals may find that their prescription glasses or contact lenses need frequent adjustments to maintain clear vision. DIAGNOSIS OF KERATOCONUS Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management of keratoconus. Eye care professionals use various tests to determine the presence and severity of the condition. These tests may include: • Corneal Topography: This imaging technique creates a detailed map of the cornea's surface, helping to identify irregularities indicative of keratoconus. • Slit-Lamp Examination: A slit-lamp is used to examine the cornea's structure, allowing for a close inspection of any abnormalities. • Refraction Test: This test measures the eye's ability to focus light and can reveal the extent of refractive errors caused by keratoconus. INDIVIDUALS WITH KERATOCONUS OFTEN BECOME MORE SENSITIVE TO LIGHT, EXPERIENCING DISCOMFORT EVEN IN NORMAL LIGHTING CONDITIONS 39 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION