Is it Possible for Keratoconus to Run in Your Family?

While the current data and research do not show definitive evidence of a genetic component to keratoconus, studies suggest that genetic and family history may be a risk factor in this degenerative eye disorder.

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Is it Possible for Keratoconus to Run in Your Family? in PRIMARYCITY

Signs of Keratoconus

Keratoconus manifests with the following symptoms:

distorted or blurry vision
eye swelling and redness
increased sensitivity to bright lights and glare.

While vision may be easily corrected during the early onset of this complication with standard glasses and corrective lenses, as the severity of the condition increases and the aforementioned signs worsen, the patient may develop astigmatism or nearsightedness.

In advanced cases certain treatments such as contact lenses and cornea cross-linking to strengthen collagen fibers, may no longer be viable options. Sometimes a patient may require scleral lenses post corneal transplantation.

Possible Genetic Factors of Keratoconus

People with the following genetic conditions may be predisposed for keratoconus:

Downs syndrome: Disorder of the 21st chromosome
Retinitis pigmentosa: Rare ocular condition involving retinal breakdown
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A connective tissue disorder
Asthma: Inflammation disease of the lungs and airway
Hay fever: A common seasonal allergy to pollen

When considering the above-mentioned conditions and possible connections with keratoconus, it is important to note that several involve complications that may lead to excessive eye-rubbing, which in turn may damage the cornea and cause this condition.

Furthermore, people with Downs Syndrome may be more apt to engage in injurious eye-rubbing and depending on the severity of their condition, they may be less capable of communicating discomfort.

Does Family History Play A Role?

There may be a hereditary component to this condition. Studies show that approximately 1 in 10 people with keratoconus have a parent with this disorder.

Summary

While there is no definitive proof of a genetic/hereditary component in patients with keratoconus, an analysis of the current research strongly suggests that there may be one. If you were diagnosed with this condition, speak with an optometrist to discuss the latest scientific research. If you have a family history of vision complications and haven't had a comprehensive eye exam, schedule one today. You can schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our eye doctor by calling 111-222-3333. Patients searching for advanced treatment for keratoconus visit our clinic from all over STATE, and we are proud to be a leading provider of medical eye care services for patients from CITY, SECONDARY1, SECONDARY2, and SECONDARY3.

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