UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

Hi

I'm new to the forum and would appreciate some help with some issues I have - I have been referred to my local hospital's eye clinic but the appointment isn't for a few months.

I was diagnosed with kerataconus while a teenager and had a brief attempt with contact lenses in 1988 which I didn't really take to as they seemed bulky and difficult to use. My condition is worse in my left eye and barely present in my right eye.

I am now keen to use contacts to both manage the condition and so I don't have to wear glasses each day.

Although I really want to use contacts I'm a bit panicky about putting them in my eye and taking them out as well as irrational fears about them getting stuck! I know things have moved on a lot since 1988 but I wanted to know if I had to go to the eye clinic for special contacts or whether I could try the ones available at chemists.

I've also noticed that on my left eye's top eye lid is slightly droopy much more than the right one. It isn't sore or uncomfortable but I've noticed it has been like this for a number of years.

Also my left eye gets very dry indeed - I've used viscotears during the day and larcolube at night which helps but the dryness is still there.

Hi Jason

OK lets get some basic information first. Are you in the UK? I ask this because in the UK you can't get contact lenses in "chemists".

Secondly - absolutely no-one here can give information like this without knowing what your eyes are like!

You do not have to go to a speciality hospital clinic - that applies where wherever in the world you are - but they do tend to have more lenses to try out than the average high street optician.

So do give us a bit more info then we can advise you better!

Lynn

Thanks Lynn, I am in the UK (in London). Not sure what other information to give - sorry to be rather slow!

Janson09, welcome to the forum

Well, they do have optometrists in some branches of Boots, but Lynn's point remains a good one.

I find the contact lens clinic in my hospital absolutely wonderful: they have a very wide knowledge of keratoconus and a broad selection of lenses to try. They go the extra mile with me every time I develop a problem, and are endlessly patient in their attempt to match the right lens to my particular condition.

Dryness can be a problem: I am currently using a new artificial tear: Optive. I have used hypermelose, carbomer gel and all sorts of other preparations. Don't wait for your eyes to become dry before using the drops; get into a routine of inserting your drops at regular intervals (easier to do with glasses than lenses).

All the best

Andrew