Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, causing vision distortion. While treatments such as corneal cross-linking (CXL) can slow or stop the progression, your daily habits also play a significant role in protecting your eyes. Small lifestyle adjustments can make a meaningful difference in long-term eye health.
Below, we’ll explore the practical changes, self-care tips, and protective strategies to help you manage keratoconus and maintain your vision.
Understanding Keratoconus Progression
One of the most common questions patients ask is: “How fast does keratoconus progress?” Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
- In some people, changes occur over several years.
- In others—especially younger patients—the condition can worsen more quickly even over weeks to months.
Genetics, environmental factors, and personal habits all play a role. That’s why making positive lifestyle changes early can help preserve your vision and potentially reduce the need for more invasive treatments later.
Does Keratoconus Ever Stop Progressing?
Keratoconus may stabilize naturally in some people, often after their 40s, but there’s no guarantee. The safest approach is to assume it will progress unless steps are taken to protect your corneas. Modern treatments like corneal cross-linking have an excellent track record of halting progression, but pairing medical care with smart lifestyle habits gives your eyes the best chance at stability.
Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Manage Keratoconus
1. Stop Eye Rubbing — Immediately
Eye rubbing is the single biggest avoidable factor linked to keratoconus progression. It can cause microtrauma to the cornea, leading to further thinning and distortion.
Tips to break the habit:
- Keep tissues or a clean cloth nearby for allergies or irritation.
- Apply a cool compress instead of rubbing.
- Identify triggers—like dry eyes or allergies—and treat them directly.
2. Manage Allergies and Eye Irritation
Allergies often cause itchy eyes, which tempts you to rub them. You may need to work with your eye doctor and an allergist to create a plan for relief:
- Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops.
- Consider oral antihistamines or antihistamine eye drops.
- Keep indoor air clean with HEPA filters to reduce allergens.
Tackling keratoconus and allergies simultaneously calls for a comprehensive strategy. At CLEI, we take an all-in-one approach—managing every aspect of your keratoconus care, from stabilizing the condition to correcting vision, while also addressing your eye allergy symptoms. By treating both conditions under one roof, you can reduce discomfort, protect your corneas, and potentially slow keratoconus progression. Consistency is key when it comes to managing these chronic issues, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
3. Protect Your Eyes from UV Damage
Long-term UV exposure may contribute to oxidative stress in the cornea, potentially impacting its structure.
- Wear 100% UV-blocking sunglasses every time you’re outdoors.
- Choose wraparound styles for extra coverage.
- Consider a wide-brimmed hat for added protection.
If your keratoconus has been stabilized—often with corneal cross-linking—you may still have options to improve your vision beyond glasses or contacts. Depending on your case, advanced procedures such as Corneal Tissue Addition Keratoplasty (CTAK), topography-guided PRK, Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs), or Intacs may help reshape, support, or enhance the cornea for sharper vision.
These procedures can also make UV protection simpler, since you’re no longer limited to prescription sunglasses—you can wear wraparound or sport-specific UV-blocking eyewear for better comfort and coverage.
And for many patients, custom-designed specialty contact lenses remain a top choice. These lenses vault over the irregular cornea, providing clearer, more stable vision, while allowing you to wear non-prescription sunglasses for flexible style and optimal sun protection.
4. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated
Dryness can worsen irritation and make you more likely to rub your eyes.
- Use preservative-free artificial tears throughout the day.
- Avoid overly dry environments or use a humidifier indoors.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking enough water daily.
5. Monitor Your Vision Regularly
Living with keratoconus means staying proactive.
- Schedule comprehensive eye exams at least once a year—or more often if your doctor recommends it.
- Keep track of changes in your vision, such as ghosting, halos, or increasing blurriness.
- If you notice rapid changes, seek evaluation promptly.
6. Practice Good Contact Lens Hygiene
If you wear specialty contact lenses for keratoconus (such as scleral or hybrid lenses):
- Follow your cleaning and replacement schedule carefully.
- Avoid sleeping in lenses unless specifically approved by your eye doctor.
- Never use tap water to rinse your lenses or case.
7. Support Overall Eye Health Through Nutrition
A nutrient-rich diet can help maintain corneal health and reduce oxidative stress.
- Focus on antioxidant-rich foods (leafy greens, berries, colorful vegetables).
- Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseed, or chia seeds to support tear quality.
- Limit highly processed foods and added sugars.
8. Reduce Eye Strain in Daily Life
While eye strain doesn’t directly cause keratoconus, it can worsen discomfort and dryness.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Adjust your screen’s brightness and contrast.
- Keep a comfortable working distance from your devices.
9. Protect Your Eyes During Physical Activities
If you play sports or do activities where your eyes could be injured:
- Wear protective sports goggles.
- Choose shatterproof lenses for added safety.
- Avoid environments where airborne particles could irritate your eyes without protection.
10. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Sleep is essential for overall tissue repair, including your eyes. Poor sleep can lead to increased eye irritation and rubbing.
- Aim for 7–9 hours of rest each night.
- Avoid sleeping facedown, which can put pressure on your corneas.
- Keep your bedroom environment allergy-friendly.
Building Habits for the Long Term
Making lifestyle changes for keratoconus isn’t about temporary fixes—it’s about developing habits you can sustain for years. Here’s how to make changes stick:
- Start small: Focus on one or two new habits at a time.
- Stay consistent: Set reminders for eye drops, sunglasses, or checkups.
- Involve your family: Let them know about your condition so they can support your efforts.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Advice
Even with the best lifestyle habits, keratoconus can sometimes progress unexpectedly. Contact your eye care provider if you experience:
- Rapid changes in vision
- Sudden increase in glare or halos
- Increased difficulty with night vision
- Discomfort or redness that doesn’t improve
Living Well with Keratoconus
While you can’t always control the course of keratoconus, you can take meaningful steps to protect your corneas and support long-term vision. From avoiding eye rubbing to protecting your eyes from UV light, these daily habits—combined with professional care—give you the best chance at stability.
With the right approach, living with keratoconus doesn’t mean giving up on clear vision or a full, active life. It means making smart choices every day to protect what matters most—your sight.
Take the Next Step Toward Protecting Your Vision
If you’ve been diagnosed with keratoconus—or suspect you may have it—our team specializes in advanced keratoconus management, including corneal cross-linking, specialty contact lenses, and comprehensive care plans. Whether you’re local or visiting from out of town, we’ll work with you to protect your vision and help you live comfortably with keratoconus.
Schedule your appointment today and take control of your eye health.
