Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea progressively thins and bulges, which can impact daily life. Self-care involves adopting daily habits to manage symptoms and support professional treatments. These practices are a component of a comprehensive management plan, helping to maintain eye health. By integrating specific strategies into your routine, you can take an active role in managing the condition.
Managing the Urge to Rub Your Eyes
The cornea in an eye with keratoconus is structurally compromised, and the physical force of rubbing can worsen the condition. This mechanical stress contributes to the progression of the corneal thinning and bulging. Frequent rubbing applies pressure that the weakened corneal tissue cannot withstand, potentially accelerating the distortion and affecting vision over time.
Identifying and managing the triggers behind the urge to rub is an effective strategy. Allergies are a common cause of itchy eyes, and addressing them with a doctor’s guidance can provide significant relief. Dryness is another frequent trigger, so keeping the eyes lubricated can reduce the sensation of irritation that leads to rubbing.
Breaking the physical habit requires conscious effort and behavioral changes. You can keep your hands occupied or use a cold compress on the eyes as a safe alternative to relieve itchiness. Practicing mindfulness also helps you become more aware of the habit and consciously choose not to rub your eyes.
Proper Contact Lens and Eye Drop Use
For many with keratoconus, specialty contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) or scleral lenses, are used to improve vision. Strict hygiene is necessary when handling these devices to prevent serious eye infections. This involves a consistent routine of cleaning and disinfecting the lenses with recommended solutions and storing them in a clean case.
Adhering to the correct technique for instilling eye drops ensures they provide maximum benefit. Lubricating drops, often called artificial tears, can alleviate the dryness and discomfort that frequently accompany keratoconus. It is important to use these as needed throughout the day to maintain moisture. If your eye doctor recommends them, preservative-free formulas are a good option for frequent use, as they can be less irritating.
Following the prescribed schedule for any medicated eye drops is another aspect of proper use. Whether for managing inflammation, allergies, or pressure, consistency is important for the medication to be effective. If you have any questions about your lens care or eye drop routine, consult your eye care provider to ensure you are following best practices.
Environmental and Digital Eye Protection
Modifying your surroundings can minimize eye strain and protect against external irritants. Protecting the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an important step, as the cornea in keratoconus can be sensitive. Wearing high-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses when outdoors shields the eyes from sun damage and can also reduce glare. Wraparound styles offer a greater degree of protection.
Digital eye strain is a modern concern that can be managed with simple habits. The 20-20-20 rule is a practical method to give your eyes a break; every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Adjusting screen brightness to match the ambient light and increasing text size can also help reduce eye fatigue.
Minimizing exposure to environmental irritants like wind, dust, and smoke can prevent the eyes from becoming dry or itchy, which in turn reduces the temptation to rub them. Using a humidifier in dry indoor environments can add moisture to the air, helping to keep the eyes more comfortable. These small adjustments can contribute to overall comfort and eye health.
Partnering with Your Eye Care Team
Self-care practices are designed to work in tandem with professional medical care, not as a substitute. Regular visits to your ophthalmologist or optometrist are necessary for monitoring the condition of your cornea. These appointments allow your provider to track any changes and make timely adjustments to your treatment plan for this progressive condition.
A collaborative relationship with your eye care team is built on open communication. It is important to report any new or worsening symptoms as soon as you notice them. This includes sudden changes in vision clarity, an increase in halos or glare, eye pain, or heightened sensitivity to light. Promptly sharing this information allows for early intervention.
This partnership empowers you to be an active participant in your own care. By following self-care advice and attending all scheduled appointments, you contribute to the overall management strategy. This proactive approach ensures your daily habits and medical treatments are aligned to support your long-term eye health.