Keratoconus Treatment at Bangkok Eye Hospital: Comprehensive Care for Corneal Disorders
Keratoconus Treatment at Bangkok Eye Hospital: Comprehensive Care for Corneal Disorders
Keratoconus (กระจกตาย้วย) is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, causing it to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion can lead to significant visual impairment and discomfort, impacting daily activities and quality of life. At Bangkok Eye Hospital, we offer specialized diagnosis and treatment for keratoconus, utilizing advanced technology and techniques to help patients manage this condition effectively and preserve their vision.
Understanding Keratoconus (กระจกตาย้วย)
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory eye disorder characterized by the progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. The cornea plays a crucial role in focusing light that enters your eye, and when its shape becomes distorted, your vision becomes blurred and distorted as well.
This condition typically begins during puberty or early adulthood and can progress for 10-20 years before stabilizing. Without proper management, keratoconus can lead to significant visual impairment and may eventually require corneal transplantation in severe cases.
What Causes Keratoconus?
The exact cause of keratoconus remains partially understood, but research suggests several contributing factors:
Genetic predisposition: About 10% of keratoconus patients have a family history of the condition.
Enzymatic imbalances: Abnormal levels of enzymes within the cornea may make it more vulnerable to oxidative damage.
Chronic eye rubbing: Vigorous and persistent eye rubbing may trigger or worsen keratoconus in susceptible individuals.
Underlying systemic conditions: Keratoconus is associated with certain conditions like Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and atopic diseases.
Environmental factors: Excessive UV exposure and chronic eye irritation may contribute to the development of keratoconus.
Symptoms and Progression
Keratoconus typically develops gradually, with symptoms that worsen over time. Early signs may be subtle and often include:
Mild blurring of vision
Slight distortion of vision
Increased sensitivity to light and glare
Mild eye redness or swelling
As the condition progresses, patients may experience:
Increasing nearsightedness and astigmatism
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
Difficulty driving at night
Ghost images or double vision
Halos around lights
Eye strain and headaches
Inability to wear contact lenses comfortably
Risk Factors
Certain factors may increase your risk of developing keratoconus:
Age: Onset typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 25
Family history: Having relatives with keratoconus increases your risk
Ethnicity: Some studies suggest higher prevalence in certain ethnic groups
Allergic conditions: Hay fever, eczema, asthma, and other allergic conditions
Eye rubbing: Habitual, aggressive eye rubbing
Connective tissue disorders: Conditions like Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Diagnosis of Keratoconus
Early detection and diagnosis of keratoconus are crucial for effective management and preventing severe vision loss. At Bangkok Eye Hospital, we utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies to accurately identify and assess the severity of keratoconus.
Advanced Diagnostic Technologies
Our comprehensive eye examination for keratoconus includes:
Corneal Topography and Tomography
This non-invasive imaging technique creates a detailed three-dimensional map of the cornea's surface, revealing irregularities and asymmetric bulging characteristic of keratoconus. Our hospital employs the latest topography systems, providing highly accurate measurements of corneal shape and thickness.
Anterior Segment OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
This advanced imaging technology provides cross-sectional views of the cornea with microscopic detail, allowing our specialists to precisely measure corneal thickness and identify areas of thinning.
Scheimpflug Imaging
This specialized photography technique provides precise measurements of the entire cornea, helping to detect even subtle changes in corneal shape and thickness.
Wavefront Analysis
This technology measures how light waves travel through your eye, detecting even minor optical irregularities that may indicate early keratoconus before it's visible through other methods.
Diagnosis Process at Bangkok Eye Hospital
When you visit our hospital with concerns about keratoconus, you can expect:
Comprehensive eye examination: Including visual acuity testing, refraction assessment, and slit-lamp examination
Advanced corneal mapping: Using the technologies described above
Detailed assessment: Our specialists will evaluate the severity and progression rate of your condition
Personalized consultation: Discussion of your diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes
Treatment Options for Keratoconus
Bangkok Eye Hospital offers a comprehensive range of treatment options for keratoconus, tailored to the severity and progression of each patient's condition. Our approach focuses on halting disease progression, improving vision, and enhancing quality of life.
Early Stage Management
For mild to moderate keratoconus, we offer several non-surgical approaches:
Specialized Contact Lenses
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These special contact lenses provide a smooth optical surface to correct vision distortions.
Scleral Lenses: These larger-diameter lenses vault over the entire corneal surface, providing exceptional comfort and visual clarity for patients with advanced keratoconus.
Hybrid Lenses: Combining the optical quality of RGP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses, these are an excellent option for patients who find traditional RGP lenses uncomfortable.
Our contact lens specialists work closely with each patient to find the optimal lens type and fit.
Prescription Eyeglasses
For patients with mild keratoconus or those who cannot tolerate contact lenses, specially designed eyeglasses may help improve vision.
Advanced Treatments
For progressive keratoconus or more advanced cases, we offer several interventional options:
Corneal Collagen Cross-linking (CXL)
This revolutionary procedure strengthens the corneal structure by creating new cross-links between collagen fibers, effectively halting keratoconus progression. Bangkok Eye Hospital offers both the standard "epi-off" protocol and the newer "epi-on" technique, selecting the most appropriate approach based on individual patient needs.
The procedure involves:
Application of riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea
Controlled exposure to UV-A light
Strengthening of corneal structure through the formation of new collagen bonds
Benefits include:
Stopping the progression of keratoconus
Preventing further visual deterioration
Potentially avoiding the need for corneal transplantation
Minimal recovery time (1-2 weeks)
Intracorneal Ring Segments (ICRS)
These tiny, clear plastic segments are inserted into the cornea to flatten the cone-shaped bulge and improve vision. This minimally invasive procedure can:
Improve vision quality
Reduce astigmatism
Enhance contact lens tolerance
Be combined with cross-linking for comprehensive treatment
Topography-Guided PRK
For selected patients, this specialized laser treatment can smooth corneal irregularities to improve vision and contact lens fit.
Surgical Interventions for Advanced Keratoconus
In cases of severe keratoconus where other treatments are insufficient, our experienced surgeons may recommend:
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
This advanced partial corneal transplant technique replaces only the diseased layers of the cornea while preserving the patient's healthy endothelial layer, reducing rejection risk and improving outcomes.
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
A full-thickness corneal transplant may be necessary for the most advanced cases. Our surgical team utilizes the latest techniques and technology to maximize success rates and minimize recovery time.
Our Expert Medical Team
At Bangkok Eye Hospital, our keratoconus patients receive care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists dedicated to corneal disorders:
Corneal Specialists
Our board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in corneal diseases and have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus. They stay at the forefront of advances in the field through continuous education and research.
Contact Lens Specialists
Our dedicated contact lens experts have specialized training in fitting complex corneal conditions, ensuring optimal visual outcomes and comfort for keratoconus patients.
Surgical Team
Our corneal surgeons are highly skilled in all surgical interventions for keratoconus, from cross-linking to advanced transplantation techniques.
Patient Journey at Bangkok Eye Hospital
We understand that receiving a keratoconus diagnosis can be concerning. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive comprehensive support throughout your treatment journey:
Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
Thorough examination and advanced diagnostic testing
Clear explanation of your condition and treatment options
Opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns
Personalized Treatment Plan
Collaborative decision-making with your specialist
Tailored approach based on your specific needs
Comprehensive information about expected outcomes and recovery
Follow-up and Long-term Care
Regular monitoring of your condition
Adjustments to treatment as needed
Ongoing support for contact lens wearers
Lifestyle and eye care guidance
Appointment Information
Bangkok Eye Hospital makes accessing specialized keratoconus care simple and convenient:
How to Schedule
Phone: Call our dedicated appointment line at [Phone Number]
Online: Book through our website at www.bangkokeyehospital.com
Email: Contact appointments@bangkokeyehospital.com
What to Bring
Previous medical records, especially eye-related
Current eyeglasses or contact lenses
List of current medications
Health insurance information
Referral letter (if applicable)
Insurance and Costs
Bangkok Eye Hospital works with numerous insurance providers and offers transparent pricing for all procedures. Our financial counselors can provide detailed information about:
Coverage verification for your insurance plan
Expected out-of-pocket costs
Available payment plans
Special packages for keratoconus treatment
Frequently Asked Questions about Keratoconus
Is keratoconus a common condition?
Keratoconus affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people worldwide, making it relatively uncommon but not rare. The prevalence may be higher in certain populations and regions.
Can keratoconus cause blindness?
While keratoconus can cause significant visual impairment, complete blindness is uncommon with modern treatment options. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can effectively preserve vision in most patients.
At what age does keratoconus typically develop?
Keratoconus usually begins during puberty or the late teenage years, with most diagnoses occurring between ages 10-25. The condition typically progresses for 10-20 years before stabilizing naturally.
Is keratoconus hereditary?
There appears to be a genetic component to keratoconus. Approximately 10-15% of patients have a family history of the condition, suggesting that genetic factors play a role in susceptibility.
How successful is corneal cross-linking in stopping keratoconus progression?
Studies show that corneal cross-linking is effective in halting keratoconus progression in over 95% of cases, with many patients experiencing improved vision as well.
How long is the recovery period after cross-linking?
Most patients experience initial discomfort for 3-5 days and can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Complete visual stabilization may take 3-6 months.
Can I still wear contact lenses after being diagnosed with keratoconus?
Yes, specialized contact lenses are actually a primary treatment option for keratoconus. Your eye care provider will recommend the most appropriate type based on your condition's severity.
Are there activities I should avoid with keratoconus?
You should avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the condition. Otherwise, most normal activities are safe, though protective eyewear is recommended for sports and activities that risk eye injury.
How often should I have eye exams with keratoconus?
Patients with keratoconus should have comprehensive eye examinations every 6-12 months, or more frequently if the condition is progressing or if you experience changes in vision.
Can keratoconus affect both eyes?
Yes, keratoconus typically affects both eyes, though often asymmetrically, with one eye more severely affected than the other.
Why Choose Bangkok Eye Hospital for Keratoconus Treatment
Cutting-edge technology: Our hospital is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment technology
Specialized expertise: Our team includes corneal specialists with extensive experience treating keratoconus
Comprehensive approach: From early intervention to advanced surgical options, we offer the full spectrum of care
Personalized treatment: Each patient receives a customized treatment plan based on their unique needs
Supportive environment: Our staff provides compassionate care and ongoing support throughout your treatment journey
Don't let keratoconus impact your quality of life. Contact Bangkok Eye Hospital today to schedule a consultation with our specialists and take the first step toward preserving your vision and eye health.