Keratoconus (bulging of the cornea) is a degenerative condition that occurs in about one person in every 1000. The cornea gradually takes on a conical rather than rounded shape. There are several apparent causes. It may be develop due to tears in the Dua layer which allow fluid buildup. The cornea tissue may thin due to the deterioration of the Bowman's Layer -- it is not inflamed but exhibits signs of free radical damage.1
Self Help & Tips
Find Vitamins & Supplements for corneal support.
Ortho K Thin (Daytime Use)
Helpful for sore, dry eyes.
Ortho K Thick (Night Use)
Night time sore, dry eye relief
- Homeopathic eye drops can be helpful for comfort.
- UVA / UVB sunglasses are important
- Basic protocol points are helpful.
- We consider most eye conditions to be tied to overall health. Lifestyle & diet are important.
MSM eyedrops and certain nutrients such as N-Acetyl-Cysteine and Vitamin C may help slow down development of keratoconu and support corneal health.
Symptomatic abnormalities include deterioration of cornea cells, collegen fibers and membranes, mitochondria swelling, and protein synthesis abnormalities. These alterations take place both within the cells and in the spaces between cells.4
- Visual distortion with and without eyeglasses.
- Standard contact lenses do not fit well.
- Multiple images (monocular polyopia
- Glare from lights
- Light sensitivity
- Poor night vision
Researchers have found that the damaged cornea shows signs of oxidation damage to the Bowman's Layer caused by free radicals. The cells create an enzyme called "leukocyte", a common antigen related protein (LAR) that is not found in normal corneas. It is felt that if cornea membrane cells are only partially damaged they can heal, but over time corneal cells can be killed causing vision loss.
With the 2013 discovery of the Dua's layer, it is also thought that a tear in this thin, tough layer may allow fluid to leak, creating pressure on the cornea (acute hydrops).
- Oxidative damage by free radicals.
- Allergies Approximately 40-50 percent of keratoconu patients have allergies. Allergies may be a contributing factor, although not confirmed in any studies.
- Magnesium deficiencies are linked to keratoconu. Researchers have found that alterations to cells and molecules in the eyes of patients with keratoconus are similar to the alterations caused by magnesium deficiency.4 Alcoholism, pregnancy, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, diuretics and stress can lead to a magnesium deficiency. Low magnesium can cause a thinning of elastic membranes such as the cornea.
- Genetic disposition.
- Keratoconus is more common in persons with Down's Syndrome2
- Use of gas permeable contact lenses (one needs to see a specialist who fits contacts for keratoconu.
- Surgery such as intrastromal corneal ring segments, keratotomy, and cross linking.
- If severe, corneal transplant which is recommended by eye doctors in 25% of cases.2 With the discovery of the Dua layer, surgeons will be more capable of avoiding damage to the corneal stroma during these interventions.
Self Help Information
Since we consider most eye conditions to be a reflection of the health of the whole body, lifestyle choices and diet can play a major factor in getting and maintaining good vision. Below are some recommendations:
- Homeopathic eye drops are helpful.
- Wear 100% UVA and UVB protecting wraparound sunglasses with a brimmed hat when you are outside.
- Supplementation with nutrients and eyedrops that have been found to be helpful to protect vision.
- Diet & lifestyle - see our recommendations for healthy eyes for detailed information.
- Pellucid marginal degeneration
- Posterior keratoconus
- Acute hydrops
- Pre-Descemet's dystrophies
Research, Footnotes and More Information
4. The possible relationship between keratoconus and magnesium deficiency, Thalasselis A., Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics, Jan. 2005, 25(1), pp 7-12.
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