If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus and are experiencing eye pain, you might be wondering if it’s normal. While mild discomfort can happen, especially in the early stages, ongoing or sharp pain may be a sign of something more serious. At Baymeadows Vision Center, we offer personalized keratoconus treatment in Jacksonville to help relieve symptoms, improve vision, and prevent complications.
Understanding what’s typical can help you know when to seek care and what options are available to help you see clearly and comfortably.
What is keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge outward into a cone shape. This distortion affects how light enters the eye, leading to blurry vision, glare, and increased sensitivity to light.
Mild to moderate cases of keratoconus can often be managed with glasses or soft contact lenses. However, as the condition progresses, it becomes harder to correct vision using these standard options.
Is eye pain with keratoconus normal?
Occasional eye discomfort or sensitivity can occur, especially if your eyes are strained or dry. However, persistent or sharp pain is not considered normal with keratoconus and could signal other issues, such as:
- Corneal scarring due to advanced disease
- Corneal hydrops, a rare but severe complication where fluid leaks into the cornea
- Ill-fitting contact lenses causing irritation or damage
- Dry eye syndrome, which is common in people with keratoconus
If you’re experiencing pain, it’s important to promptly schedule a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause and prevent further damage.
Keratoconus eye pain relief
When glasses and soft contacts no longer provide clear or comfortable vision, scleral lenses offer a highly effective solution. These larger contact lenses rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) and vault over the irregular cornea, creating a smooth surface that corrects vision and protects the eye.
Scleral lenses are especially beneficial for patients with advanced keratoconus or corneal scarring. They also help reduce discomfort caused by dry eye or poorly fitting lenses.
When to see a professional for eye pain
If you have keratoconus and experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to see our experienced optometrists:
- Sharp, stabbing, or persistent eye pain
- Sudden vision changes
- Redness or excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light that worsens
- Discomfort with your current contact lenses
Early intervention can help preserve your vision and prevent complications.
Visit us for expert keratoconus care
At Baymeadows Vision Center, our trusted optometrists have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing keratoconus. From custom lens fittings to advanced options like scleral lenses and corneal mapping, we use the latest technology to give you clearer vision and greater comfort.
Call our Jacksonville office at (904) 739-2050 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule an appointment and find out what treatment option is right for you.