Cornea & Keratoconus
The cornea, often called the "window of the eye," is a remarkable structure that plays a pivotal role in your vision. This transparent, dome-shaped tissue covers the front of the eye and serves as a protective barrier while allowing light to enter and be focused onto the retina. It's an essential part of the eye's optical system, responsible for two-thirds of the eye's focusing power.
The Cornea's Composition:
- Epithelium: The outermost layer provides a protective barrier and helps maintain the cornea's smooth surface.
- Bowman's Layer: A thin layer beneath the epithelium that adds structural support.
- Stroma: The thickest layer, made up of collagen fibers, gives the cornea its strength, clarity, and shape.
- Descemet's Membrane: A thin, protective layer separating the stroma from the endothelium.
- Endothelium: The innermost layer responsible for maintaining the cornea's clarity by regulating fluid balance.
Symptoms of Keratoconus:
- Blurry or Distorted Vision: Objects may appear distorted, and vision may be increasingly blurry.
- Increased Sensitivity to Light: Bright lights can cause discomfort, and glare may become problematic.
- Frequent Changes in Eyeglass: As the cornea's shape changes, visual correction needs may evolve more frequently.
- Difficulty with Night Vision: Reduced night vision and the presence of halos around lights can be challenging.
