Does Scratching the Eye Affect Keratoconus?

Eye health has an important place in human life and is an issue that should be given a lot of importance in terms of life comfort. Some eye conditions that may be encountered directly affect vision and directly negatively affect the comfort of life. One of these is keratoconus disease. Keratoconus is an eye disease characterized by thinning of the cornea (the transparent front layer of the eye) and a dome-like shape. While the eye should normally have a regular shape, when keratoconus develops, the cornea becomes conical and pointed. This can lead to visual impairment and even blindness. As such, it is a disease that can change a person’s life.

The fact that it is such an important disorder reveals many curious details about keratoconus. Rubbing or scratching the eye is one of the most curious points about this disease. Contrary to popular belief, there is actually a direct relationship between rubbing or scratching the eye and the development of keratoconus.

Can Scratching the Eye Cause Keratoconus?

The desire to scratch the eye is usually caused by itching or discomfort. Scratching provides a momentary relief to the person. But in fact, scratching the eye is a very harmful action. Rubbing or scratching the eye can increase the pressure on the cornea, causing thinning and deformities. This can contribute to the progression of keratoconus.

The progression of keratoconus can result in a significant change in the shape of the eye. As the curvature of the cornea increases, visual disturbances such as astigmatism and myopia become more pronounced. As the optical smoothness of the eye deteriorates, it becomes more difficult to achieve clear vision with corrective devices such as glasses or contact lenses. In addition, progressive Keratoconus can lead to corneal injuries and visual loss in advanced stages.

keratokonus
Scratching the eye can contribute to the progression of Keratoconus and can also make the condition more difficult to manage. Scratching can lead to irritation of the cornea and the risk of infection. This can increase the risk of complications of Keratoconus. Therefore, it is important for people diagnosed with Keratoconus to avoid scratching their eyes.

In fact, we can say that the act of scratching the eye can damage the eye in general, not just for keratoconus. Because, as we said above, scratching can damage the eye and increase pressure on the eye. This is effective in the emergence of eye disorders.

Keratokonus kornea nakliConclusion,

Habits such as scratching the eye can have an impact on the progression and management of eye diseases such as Keratoconus. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of your eyes to maintain eye health and prevent the progression of eye conditions. It is vital to consult an ophthalmologist and receive appropriate treatment if any discomfort is felt. Remember that taking care of eye health can significantly improve quality of life.

Assoc. Prof. Aylin Kılıç
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