Keratoconus progression typically ceases around the age of 40.
Understanding Keratoconus Progression
Keratoconus is an eye condition where the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision. While its exact cause is often unknown, its progression follows a general pattern.
Typical Age of Stabilization
The disorder's progression usually stops around the age of 40. At this point, the changes to the cornea tend to stabilize, meaning further significant worsening of vision or corneal shape is less likely.
Early Diagnosis and Worsening Stages
Symptoms of keratoconus are commonly diagnosed in an individual's early 20s. Following diagnosis, the condition tends to worsen progressively over time. This period of worsening can continue for several years, often until the patient reaches their fourth decade of life. During these years, the corneal thinning and bulging can increase, leading to a gradual decline in vision quality.
What Stabilization Means
When keratoconus stabilizes, it implies that the cornea's shape is no longer undergoing rapid or significant changes. While any vision impairment that occurred before stabilization may remain, the risk of further deterioration is significantly reduced. This stabilization is an important phase, as it often allows for more stable vision correction options, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses, hybrid lenses, or scleral lenses, which can effectively manage vision for many individuals.
