Keratoconus is an eye disease that directly affects vision and causes deterioration of the corneal structure. Its effects are known, but there are many different ideas about the causes of the disease. Although no exact cause has been identified, we know that some causes are more effective in the formation of keratoconus. But is dry eye among these causes? Does dry eye cause keratoconus disease?
Dry eye is not a direct cause of keratoconus
As we said above, we cannot count the exact causes of keratoconus disease. But we can say that one of the top causes is rubbing the eye.
Scratching or rubbing the eye is among the main causes of corneal deformity. This is where dry eye comes into play. In fact, dry eye does not have a direct effect on keratoconus. However, since the occurrence of dry eye condition will cause itching in the eyes, it creates an environment for the person to constantly rub or scratch his/her eyes. This may have an indirect effect on the development of keratoconus. At this point, the best thing to do is to apply treatment against dry eye with the methods prescribed by the doctor.
Different measures such as drops to be applied for dry eye, eyelash base care to prevent blockage of the meibomian glands and hot compresses to be applied to the eyelid should be addressed. Preventing the occurrence of dry eye with the treatments and care to be applied will indirectly reduce the risk of keratoconus.
