[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1904},["ShallowReactive",2],{"microcopies":3,"page-data-\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fkeratoconus":9},{"of":4,"jumpToSection":5,"home":6,"availableAt":7,"accessedUpdated":8},"of","Jump to section","Home","Available at","Accessed",{"queryData":10,"breadcrumbTrail":1903},{"contentPage":11},{"entryTitle":12,"pageTitle":13,"seoMetaData":14,"topSection":18,"bottomSection":26,"anchors":38,"mainSectionCollection":81},"NZ - Eye Health - Eye Conditions - Keratoconus","Keratoconus: what causes it and how to manage it",{"metaDescription":15,"indexed":16,"follow":16,"metaKeywords":17,"updatedForProjectAlphabet":16},"Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes thinning and bulging of the cornea. Learn the signs, causes, and treatment options available.",true,null,{"__typename":19,"sys":20,"button":17,"title":22,"subtitle":23,"theme":24,"heroHeightVersion":25},"HeroBanner",{"id":21},"5Fy7nyDhU2aeiapw5yDoqN","Keratoconus ","Keratoconus is a condition that affects the shape of your eye. Find out about keratoconus symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. ","Ellipse","Condensed",{"__typename":27,"sys":28,"title":30,"body":31,"buttonsCollection":32},"FullWidthBannerFooter",{"id":29},"51o4LDgfgwIbWVUJ0kcQ8X","Let's get your vision sorted","Noticed a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","\u002Fbook\u002Flocation",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66,71,76],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"What is Keratoconus?",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"1ZI1Rxz2ptsbSnTNKXPMqN",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48},"Symptoms",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"1XAAPlbEHObqVzvUzJBawd",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Stages of Keratoconus",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"4nJmFcEMrLjhRHyXdXaHHn",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Causes",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"6SmN0z6vpgMkCWMxhCPJv5",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Diagnosis",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"13a7fMO7AWwqYnfbAScpov",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68},"Treatment",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"4xeuToMAPjf81kEoaMyJpX",{"anchorLabel":72,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":73},"Prevention",{"sys":74},{"id":75},"5GWQpDhiOf5Q7oEmPJGE5k",{"anchorLabel":77,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":78},"FAQs",{"sys":79},{"id":80},"2di4fBTNaLVfQ3UxXDuE47",{"items":82},[83,90,128,175,345,511,563,655,707,803,827,1018,1209,1245,1386,1401,1431,1473,1852,1883],{"__typename":84,"sys":85,"linkEntries":86,"title":88,"body":89,"leftAligned":16},"Summary",{"id":45},{"items":87},[],"What is keratoconus? ","Keratoconus is when the cornea (the transparent layer on the front of your eye) gets thinner and starts bulging out into a cone shape. Rather than being round like a football, the front of the eye becomes more pointed, like a rugby ball. \n",{"__typename":91,"sys":92,"title":94,"subtitle":95,"hotspotConfigurator":96,"hotspotImageReference":126},"MediaHotspotCarousel",{"id":93},"BcrBdhucp2B8l5bNaUiex","Keratoconus explained ","Here’s how keratoconus changes the eye’s shape and vision. ",{"assetId":97,"hotspots":98},"4aSrDVp21iDfXe0zTwRvjX",[99,110,118],{"x":100,"y":101,"id":102,"label":103,"theme":104,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":105,"naturalX":100,"naturalY":101,"percentageX":106,"percentageY":107,"appImageWidth":108,"appImageHeight":109},177,260.5,"0OqhfUvtjYFOHPiFDJ8Ro","Healthy cornea ","Light","The cornea is rounded and smooth. ",27.65625,55.54371002132196,640,469,{"x":111,"y":112,"id":113,"label":114,"theme":104,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":115,"naturalX":111,"naturalY":112,"percentageX":116,"percentageY":117,"appImageWidth":108,"appImageHeight":109},418,276.5,"8JawUCZC60hnFyUQ4mbe2","Keratoconus cornea","Rather than being rounded, the cornea becomes cone shaped. ",65.3125,58.95522388059702,{"x":119,"y":120,"id":121,"label":122,"theme":104,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":123,"naturalX":119,"naturalY":120,"percentageX":124,"percentageY":125,"appImageWidth":108,"appImageHeight":109},462,317.5,"y5H9MMn1K9PwaFolmpYc1","Scarring","Over time, damage to the weakened cornea can cause scarring. ",72.1875,67.69722814498934,{"url":127},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F4aSrDVp21iDfXe0zTwRvjX\u002F304bfb8e8ae66b41eb5d4962fd4d9a93\u002FKeratoconus.svg.png",{"__typename":129,"sys":130,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":132},"ContentTypeRichText",{"id":50},"Cool Blue",{"json":133,"links":170},{"data":134,"content":135,"nodeType":169},{},[136,145,153,162],{"data":137,"content":138,"nodeType":144},{},[139],{"data":140,"marks":141,"value":142,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus symptoms ","text","heading-2",{"data":146,"content":147,"nodeType":152},{},[148],{"data":149,"marks":150,"value":151,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus symptoms vary from person to person, depending on how advanced the condition is. For some, it develops quickly, while for others it progresses slowly over many years or even decades. \n \nSymptoms usually begin in the early teens to early twenties, though they can appear earlier or later. \n \nAny changes in your vision should be checked by an optometrist as soon as possible. \n \nBelow are some of the main symptoms of keratoconus, depending on the stage. ","paragraph",{"data":154,"content":160,"nodeType":161},{"target":155},{"sys":156},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},"395b8esPHoSP6jWAob1ApE","Link","Entry",[],"embedded-entry-block",{"data":163,"content":164,"nodeType":152},{},[165],{"data":166,"marks":167,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],"","document",{"entries":171},{"block":172},[173],{"__typename":158,"sys":174,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":129,"sys":176,"theme":178,"genericTextComponent":179},{"id":177},"4PNY2e80vfASKsuYaFiKfb","Mono White",{"json":180,"links":340},{"data":181,"content":182,"nodeType":169},{},[183,191,198,206,226,233,251,258,265,272,290,297,315,322,329,334],{"data":184,"content":185,"nodeType":190},{},[186],{"data":187,"marks":188,"value":189,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Early symptoms of keratoconus ","heading-3",{"data":192,"content":193,"nodeType":152},{},[194],{"data":195,"marks":196,"value":197,"nodeType":143},{},[],"The earliest signs of keratoconus usually involve changes in your vision. However, these changes can be subtle and are sometimes mistaken for other eye conditions. Early-stage symptoms include: ",{"data":199,"content":200,"nodeType":205},{},[201],{"data":202,"marks":203,"value":204,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Mild blurring","heading-4",{"data":207,"content":208,"nodeType":152},{},[209,213,222],{"data":210,"marks":211,"value":212,"nodeType":143},{},[],"As the cornea starts to change shape, light passing through to the back of the eye doesn't get focused as well, which can cause blurring. \nLearn more about",{"data":214,"content":216,"nodeType":221},{"uri":215},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-are-the-causes-of-blurred-vision",[217],{"data":218,"marks":219,"value":220,"nodeType":143},{},[]," blurry vision","hyperlink",{"data":223,"marks":224,"value":225,"nodeType":143},{},[]," ",{"data":227,"content":228,"nodeType":205},{},[229],{"data":230,"marks":231,"value":232,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Visual distortion",{"data":234,"content":235,"nodeType":152},{},[236,240,248],{"data":237,"marks":238,"value":239,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Some parts of your vision are clear, but other parts become blurry. You might get some double vision too. \nLearn more about ",{"data":241,"content":243,"nodeType":221},{"uri":242},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdouble-vision",[244],{"data":245,"marks":246,"value":247,"nodeType":143},{},[],"double vision ",{"data":249,"marks":250,"value":225,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":252,"content":253,"nodeType":205},{},[254],{"data":255,"marks":256,"value":257,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Sensitivity to light (photophobia)",{"data":259,"content":260,"nodeType":152},{},[261],{"data":262,"marks":263,"value":264,"nodeType":143},{},[],"You might notice that you become more sensitive to light. Bright lights and sunlight can feel uncomfortable. ",{"data":266,"content":267,"nodeType":205},{},[268],{"data":269,"marks":270,"value":271,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Short-sightedness ",{"data":273,"content":274,"nodeType":152},{},[275,279,287],{"data":276,"marks":277,"value":278,"nodeType":143},{},[],"People with keratoconus often notice they develop short-sightedness (myopia), meaning they can't see things further away as well. \nLearn more about ",{"data":280,"content":282,"nodeType":221},{"uri":281},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fmyopia",[283],{"data":284,"marks":285,"value":286,"nodeType":143},{},[],"short-sightedness ",{"data":288,"marks":289,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":291,"content":292,"nodeType":205},{},[293],{"data":294,"marks":295,"value":296,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Astigmatism",{"data":298,"content":299,"nodeType":152},{},[300,304,312],{"data":301,"marks":302,"value":303,"nodeType":143},{},[],"This when you get blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregular eye shape. It can mean you have difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions. \nLearn more about ",{"data":305,"content":307,"nodeType":221},{"uri":306},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fastigmatism",[308],{"data":309,"marks":310,"value":311,"nodeType":143},{},[],"astigmatism",{"data":313,"marks":314,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":316,"content":317,"nodeType":205},{},[318],{"data":319,"marks":320,"value":321,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Changing prescription frequently",{"data":323,"content":324,"nodeType":152},{},[325],{"data":326,"marks":327,"value":328,"nodeType":143},{},[],"If you find that you often need to change your prescription glasses or contact lenses (more than once every couple of years), this could be a sign of keratoconus. ",{"data":330,"content":333,"nodeType":161},{"target":331},{"sys":332},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":335,"content":336,"nodeType":152},{},[337],{"data":338,"marks":339,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":341},{"block":342},[343],{"__typename":158,"sys":344,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":129,"sys":346,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":348},{"id":347},"6Md6G54KxNVnCku01Tif9h",{"json":349,"links":506},{"data":350,"content":351,"nodeType":169},{},[352,359,366,373,380,387,394,401,431,438,456,463,470,477,495,500],{"data":353,"content":354,"nodeType":190},{},[355],{"data":356,"marks":357,"value":358,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Advanced symptoms of keratoconus ",{"data":360,"content":361,"nodeType":152},{},[362],{"data":363,"marks":364,"value":365,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Here are some advanced stage keratoconus symptoms: ",{"data":367,"content":368,"nodeType":205},{},[369],{"data":370,"marks":371,"value":372,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Visible 'pointing' eye shape",{"data":374,"content":375,"nodeType":152},{},[376],{"data":377,"marks":378,"value":379,"nodeType":143},{},[],"In later stages of keratoconus, the cornea appears more pointed or cone shaped, instead of being rounded with a smooth curve. ",{"data":381,"content":382,"nodeType":205},{},[383],{"data":384,"marks":385,"value":386,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Noticing 'ghost' images",{"data":388,"content":389,"nodeType":152},{},[390],{"data":391,"marks":392,"value":393,"nodeType":143},{},[],"As keratoconus progresses, you may notice there are multiple 'ghost' images that surround a main image when looking at things (known as 'monocular polyopia'). These can appear scattered randomly around the main image. Over time, the way these 'ghost' images appear can change. ",{"data":395,"content":396,"nodeType":205},{},[397],{"data":398,"marks":399,"value":400,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Very blurry keratoconus vision",{"data":402,"content":403,"nodeType":152},{},[404,408,416,420,428],{"data":405,"marks":406,"value":407,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Your vision gets progressively worse, with blurriness, distortion, or cloudiness making it more difficult to see clearly. \nLearn more about ",{"data":409,"content":411,"nodeType":221},{"uri":410},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcloudy-vision",[412],{"data":413,"marks":414,"value":415,"nodeType":143},{},[],"cloudy vision",{"data":417,"marks":418,"value":419,"nodeType":143},{},[]," and ",{"data":421,"content":423,"nodeType":221},{"uri":422},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fblurry-vision",[424],{"data":425,"marks":426,"value":427,"nodeType":143},{},[],"blurry vision ",{"data":429,"marks":430,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":432,"content":433,"nodeType":205},{},[434],{"data":435,"marks":436,"value":437,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Corneal scarring",{"data":439,"content":440,"nodeType":152},{},[441,445,453],{"data":442,"marks":443,"value":444,"nodeType":143},{},[],"As your cornea gets thinner, it can be more easily damaged. This can cause scarring on the cornea, which can make vision blurrier. \nLearn more about ",{"data":446,"content":448,"nodeType":221},{"uri":447},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcorneal-abrasion",[449],{"data":450,"marks":451,"value":452,"nodeType":143},{},[],"corneal abrasion",{"data":454,"marks":455,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":457,"content":458,"nodeType":205},{},[459],{"data":460,"marks":461,"value":462,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Contact lenses no longer fit",{"data":464,"content":465,"nodeType":152},{},[466],{"data":467,"marks":468,"value":469,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Because your cornea has changed shape so much, it can become hard or impossible to wear normal contact lenses. ",{"data":471,"content":472,"nodeType":205},{},[473],{"data":474,"marks":475,"value":476,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Eye discomfort",{"data":478,"content":479,"nodeType":152},{},[480,484,492],{"data":481,"marks":482,"value":483,"nodeType":143},{},[],"While keratoconus isn't usually painful, it can cause discomfort, throbbing, a gritty feeling or even a burning sensation for some people. \nLearn more about ",{"data":485,"content":487,"nodeType":221},{"uri":486},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-pain",[488],{"data":489,"marks":490,"value":491,"nodeType":143},{},[],"eye pain",{"data":493,"marks":494,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":496,"content":499,"nodeType":161},{"target":497},{"sys":498},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":501,"content":502,"nodeType":152},{},[503],{"data":504,"marks":505,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":507},{"block":508},[509],{"__typename":158,"sys":510,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":512,"sys":513,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":515,"leftColumnCollection":516,"rightColumnCollection":555},"TwoColumnLayout",{"id":514},"4ClZgxHeenq32inlxvxkLu","White",{"items":517},[518],{"__typename":129,"sys":519,"theme":178,"genericTextComponent":521},{"id":520},"6vdmFHhpCgj085uvkpYc9Z",{"json":522,"links":550},{"nodeType":169,"data":523,"content":524},{},[525,532,539,544],{"nodeType":190,"data":526,"content":527},{},[528],{"nodeType":143,"value":529,"marks":530,"data":531},"What can keratoconus vision look like? ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":533,"content":534},{},[535],{"nodeType":143,"value":536,"marks":537,"data":538},"One of the common symptoms of keratoconus is \"Ghosting\". This is when multiple 'ghost' images appear around the main object you're looking at (particularly when you're looking at high contrast images). These 'ghosts' tend to be scattered around the main image at random. ",[],{},{"nodeType":161,"data":540,"content":543},{"target":541},{"sys":542},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"nodeType":152,"data":545,"content":546},{},[547],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":548,"data":549},[],{},{"entries":551},{"block":552},[553],{"__typename":158,"sys":554,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"items":556},[557],{"__typename":558,"sys":559,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":17,"imageLink":17,"image":561},"MediaImage",{"id":560},"5ojAQi6Cph8BUeX6yQvhdh",{"url":562},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F7vwv3cdeDYo2lh7UCQxT4v\u002Fb22a67e281a4fc10b0e200877ad4283f\u002FSpecsavers_Clinical_May2022-23.jpg",{"__typename":129,"sys":564,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":565},{"id":55},{"json":566,"links":650},{"data":567,"content":568,"nodeType":169},{},[569,576,583,590,597,604,611,618,625,632,639,644],{"data":570,"content":571,"nodeType":144},{},[572],{"data":573,"marks":574,"value":575,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Stages of keratoconus ",{"data":577,"content":578,"nodeType":152},{},[579],{"data":580,"marks":581,"value":582,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus may progress through four stages - mild, moderate, advanced, and severe. It develops in different ways for different people. For some, keratoconus never develops beyond the mild stage, while for others it can progress to more advanced stages within a few years. In most cases, progression slows or stops by your 30s or 40s. \n \nIf you have keratoconus, regular appointments with your optometrist are crucial. They can monitor any changes and help you to manage the condition. ",{"data":584,"content":585,"nodeType":190},{},[586],{"data":587,"marks":588,"value":589,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Mild keratoconus",{"data":591,"content":592,"nodeType":152},{},[593],{"data":594,"marks":595,"value":596,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Your cornea starts to become thinner and bulges slightly. You will experience some problems seeing things further away and some blurring. You may also notice you're more sensitive to light. ",{"data":598,"content":599,"nodeType":190},{},[600],{"data":601,"marks":602,"value":603,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Moderate keratoconus",{"data":605,"content":606,"nodeType":152},{},[607],{"data":608,"marks":609,"value":610,"nodeType":143},{},[],"The cornea takes on more of a cone shape, which is known as corneal steepening. Scarring may happen, and blurring along with visual distortion becomes more pronounced. ",{"data":612,"content":613,"nodeType":190},{},[614],{"data":615,"marks":616,"value":617,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Advanced keratoconus",{"data":619,"content":620,"nodeType":152},{},[621],{"data":622,"marks":623,"value":624,"nodeType":143},{},[],"In the advanced stage, the cornea bulges more noticeably, becomes thinner, and develops scarring. You may experience increased blurring, visual distortions (such as multiple 'ghost' images), and other symptoms. ",{"data":626,"content":627,"nodeType":190},{},[628],{"data":629,"marks":630,"value":631,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Severe keratoconus",{"data":633,"content":634,"nodeType":152},{},[635],{"data":636,"marks":637,"value":638,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Cornea becomes very thin and bulges outwards. Vision is often badly affected, with blurring and distortion. In some cases, a split can develop in the back layer of the cornea (called hydrops), causing painful swelling and scarring. ",{"data":640,"content":643,"nodeType":161},{"target":641},{"sys":642},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":645,"content":646,"nodeType":152},{},[647],{"data":648,"marks":649,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":651},{"block":652},[653],{"__typename":158,"sys":654,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":512,"sys":656,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":515,"leftColumnCollection":658,"rightColumnCollection":699},{"id":657},"76Db62MBFAXQ72jSHHKJuy",{"items":659},[660],{"__typename":129,"sys":661,"theme":178,"genericTextComponent":663},{"id":662},"cVAM4rYXqVplrZojWnLjW",{"json":664,"links":696},{"data":665,"content":666,"nodeType":169},{},[667,674,681],{"data":668,"content":669,"nodeType":190},{},[670],{"data":671,"marks":672,"value":673,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Can keratoconus be cured? ",{"data":675,"content":676,"nodeType":152},{},[677],{"data":678,"marks":679,"value":680,"nodeType":143},{},[],"A keratoconus diagnosis can feel worrying, but the good news is that there are many effective treatments available. The right treatment depends on how advanced the condition is and your specific symptoms. Our optometrists in New Zealand have extensive experience with keratoconus and can guide you through your options. ",{"data":682,"content":683,"nodeType":152},{},[684,687,693],{"data":685,"marks":686,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":688,"content":689,"nodeType":221},{"uri":36},[690],{"data":691,"marks":692,"value":35,"nodeType":143},{"chevron-link":16},[],{"data":694,"marks":695,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":697},{"block":698},[],{"items":700},[701],{"__typename":558,"sys":702,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":704,"imageLink":17,"image":705},{"id":703},"3Qad9CC7FVvG3UmWjmeFyL","An eye care professional smiles while talking to two patients in an examination room with medical equipment and computer monitors.",{"url":706},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F7nCPIhshGEO4NYU1HvEyHC\u002Fe875bf12bd1499aa717cc60b8865e371\u002Fbulk_billing_content1-960x700.webp",{"__typename":129,"sys":708,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":709},{"id":60},{"json":710,"links":800},{"data":711,"content":712,"nodeType":169},{},[713,720,727,734,741,748,766,773,780,787,794],{"data":714,"content":715,"nodeType":144},{},[716],{"data":717,"marks":718,"value":719,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Causes of keratoconus  ",{"data":721,"content":722,"nodeType":152},{},[723],{"data":724,"marks":725,"value":726,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Experts still don't know exactly what causes keratoconus - it's likely to be a mix of things coming together. Here are some of the main keratoconus causes that experts believe contribute to the condition. ",{"data":728,"content":729,"nodeType":205},{},[730],{"data":731,"marks":732,"value":733,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Genetics",{"data":735,"content":736,"nodeType":152},{},[737],{"data":738,"marks":739,"value":740,"nodeType":143},{},[],"There is evidence that there is a genetic element to keratoconus - it often runs in families. It is also more common in people who have certain genetic conditions, like Down syndrome. ",{"data":742,"content":743,"nodeType":205},{},[744],{"data":745,"marks":746,"value":747,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Eye rubbing",{"data":749,"content":750,"nodeType":152},{},[751,755,763],{"data":752,"marks":753,"value":754,"nodeType":143},{},[],"People who rub their eyes a lot are more likely to develop keratoconus. Excessive rubbing can damage the cornea. People with allergies, eye infections, dry eye syndrome, or eczema may rub their eyes more often. \nLearn more about ",{"data":756,"content":758,"nodeType":221},{"uri":757},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdry-eye-syndrome",[759],{"data":760,"marks":761,"value":762,"nodeType":143},{},[],"dry eye syndrome",{"data":764,"marks":765,"value":225,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":767,"content":768,"nodeType":205},{},[769],{"data":770,"marks":771,"value":772,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Hormonal shifts",{"data":774,"content":775,"nodeType":152},{},[776],{"data":777,"marks":778,"value":779,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus appears to be connected to hormonal changes (hormones are your body’s chemical messengers). Symptoms often begin around puberty as well as other times of rapid hormonal change, like pregnancy or menopause. ",{"data":781,"content":782,"nodeType":205},{},[783],{"data":784,"marks":785,"value":786,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Environmental factors",{"data":788,"content":789,"nodeType":152},{},[790],{"data":791,"marks":792,"value":793,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Some environmental factors, such as pollen, high levels of ultraviolet light or even air pollution could be possible keratoconus causes. ",{"data":795,"content":796,"nodeType":152},{},[797],{"data":798,"marks":799,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":801},{"block":802},[],{"__typename":129,"sys":804,"theme":178,"genericTextComponent":806},{"id":805},"7Lg5jufgSqpY7p98KdqH6j",{"json":807,"links":824},{"data":808,"content":809,"nodeType":169},{},[810,817],{"data":811,"content":812,"nodeType":190},{},[813],{"data":814,"marks":815,"value":816,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Who's more likely to be affected by keratoconus? ",{"data":818,"content":819,"nodeType":152},{},[820],{"data":821,"marks":822,"value":823,"nodeType":143},{},[],"All kinds of people get keratoconus in NZ, but some people seem to be more affected than others. It's more common among young people - it often begins during puberty or in people's early twenties. It also seems to particularly affect people from Asian (particularly South Asian), Pacific and Maori ethnicities - according to research.  ",{"entries":825},{"block":826},[],{"__typename":129,"sys":828,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":829},{"id":65},{"json":830,"links":1013},{"data":831,"content":832,"nodeType":169},{},[833,840,847,863,870,877,884,902,909,927,934,952,959,977,984,1002,1007],{"data":834,"content":835,"nodeType":144},{},[836],{"data":837,"marks":838,"value":839,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus diagnosis ",{"data":841,"content":842,"nodeType":152},{},[843],{"data":844,"marks":845,"value":846,"nodeType":143},{},[],"If you've noticed you have symptoms of keratoconus vision, it's really important to visit your optometrist. They will do tests to diagnose what's happening. The sooner you get a diagnosis, the more your optometrist can do to help manage the condition - and potentially stop it from getting worse. ",{"data":848,"content":849,"nodeType":152},{},[850,853,860],{"data":851,"marks":852,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":854,"content":856,"nodeType":221},{"uri":855},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.specsavers.co.nz\u002Feye-tests",[857],{"data":858,"marks":859,"value":35,"nodeType":143},{"chevron-link":16},[],{"data":861,"marks":862,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":864,"content":865,"nodeType":190},{},[866],{"data":867,"marks":868,"value":869,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Medical history",{"data":871,"content":872,"nodeType":152},{},[873],{"data":874,"marks":875,"value":876,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Your optometrist will ask about when the symptoms began, what things look like for you, and if you notice any patterns (such as times of day it's more noticeable). They will also want to know if any of your relatives have similar issues - it's worth asking around your extended family. ",{"data":878,"content":879,"nodeType":190},{},[880],{"data":881,"marks":882,"value":883,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Visual acuity tests",{"data":885,"content":886,"nodeType":152},{},[887,891,899],{"data":888,"marks":889,"value":890,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Your optometrist will do some tests to check for things like short-sightedness or astigmatism. They will usually ask you to read off a Snellen chart, where the letters go from large to small. \nLearn more about ",{"data":892,"content":894,"nodeType":221},{"uri":893},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-a-snellen-chart",[895],{"data":896,"marks":897,"value":898,"nodeType":143},{},[],"snellen charts",{"data":900,"marks":901,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":903,"content":904,"nodeType":190},{},[905],{"data":906,"marks":907,"value":908,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Slit lamp exam",{"data":910,"content":911,"nodeType":152},{},[912,916,924],{"data":913,"marks":914,"value":915,"nodeType":143},{},[],"A slit lamp is a powerful microscope with an attached light that lets the optometrist see your cornea very close up. \nLearn more about ",{"data":917,"content":919,"nodeType":221},{"uri":918},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-a-slit-lamp",[920],{"data":921,"marks":922,"value":923,"nodeType":143},{},[],"slit lamps ",{"data":925,"marks":926,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":928,"content":929,"nodeType":190},{},[930],{"data":931,"marks":932,"value":933,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Retinoscopy",{"data":935,"content":936,"nodeType":152},{},[937,941,949],{"data":938,"marks":939,"value":940,"nodeType":143},{},[],"A retinoscope lets the optometrist check how well your eyes focus. It helps the optometrist work out how short- or long-sighted you are. \nLearn more about ",{"data":942,"content":944,"nodeType":221},{"uri":943},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-a-retinoscope",[945],{"data":946,"marks":947,"value":948,"nodeType":143},{},[],"retinoscopes ",{"data":950,"marks":951,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":953,"content":954,"nodeType":190},{},[955],{"data":956,"marks":957,"value":958,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratometer",{"data":960,"content":961,"nodeType":152},{},[962,966,974],{"data":963,"marks":964,"value":965,"nodeType":143},{},[],"This is a device that measures the curve of your cornea. It helps with monitoring how your keratoconus is advancing. \nLearn more about ",{"data":967,"content":969,"nodeType":221},{"uri":968},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-a-keratometer",[970],{"data":971,"marks":972,"value":973,"nodeType":143},{},[],"keratometers ",{"data":975,"marks":976,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":978,"content":979,"nodeType":190},{},[980],{"data":981,"marks":982,"value":983,"nodeType":143},{},[],"OCT scan",{"data":985,"content":986,"nodeType":152},{},[987,991,999],{"data":988,"marks":989,"value":990,"nodeType":143},{},[],"This powerful machine helps optometrists view the inside of your eye and can help monitor changes in shape over time. \nLearn more about ",{"data":992,"content":994,"nodeType":221},{"uri":993},"\u002Feye-tests\u002Foct",[995],{"data":996,"marks":997,"value":998,"nodeType":143},{},[],"OCT scans ",{"data":1000,"marks":1001,"value":225,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1003,"content":1006,"nodeType":161},{"target":1004},{"sys":1005},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":1008,"content":1009,"nodeType":152},{},[1010],{"data":1011,"marks":1012,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":1014},{"block":1015},[1016],{"__typename":158,"sys":1017,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":129,"sys":1019,"theme":178,"genericTextComponent":1020},{"id":70},{"json":1021,"links":1204},{"data":1022,"content":1023,"nodeType":169},{},[1024,1031,1038,1045,1063,1070,1088,1095,1102,1109,1116,1123,1130,1137,1165,1172,1179,1186,1193,1198],{"data":1025,"content":1026,"nodeType":144},{},[1027],{"data":1028,"marks":1029,"value":1030,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus treatment ",{"data":1032,"content":1033,"nodeType":152},{},[1034],{"data":1035,"marks":1036,"value":1037,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Most people with keratoconus can manage the condition well and there are several treatment options depending on how advanced it is. At Specsavers, we focus on helping you see clearly and comfortably. Your optometrist will talk through the right option for you, based on how far your keratoconus has progressed, your age, and your overall eye health. ",{"data":1039,"content":1040,"nodeType":190},{},[1041],{"data":1042,"marks":1043,"value":1044,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus glasses ",{"data":1046,"content":1047,"nodeType":152},{},[1048,1052,1060],{"data":1049,"marks":1050,"value":1051,"nodeType":143},{},[],"If your keratoconus is fairly mild, your optometrist may advise wearing prescription glasses. These will help treat astigmatism or short-sightedness, making it easier for you to see things \nLearn more about ",{"data":1053,"content":1055,"nodeType":221},{"uri":1054},"\u002Fglasses\u002Fbuyers-guide",[1056],{"data":1057,"marks":1058,"value":1059,"nodeType":143},{},[],"glasses ",{"data":1061,"marks":1062,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1064,"content":1065,"nodeType":190},{},[1066],{"data":1067,"marks":1068,"value":1069,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Contacts for keratoconus ",{"data":1071,"content":1072,"nodeType":152},{},[1073,1077,1085],{"data":1074,"marks":1075,"value":1076,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Another option for milder cases of keratoconus is to use standard soft contact lenses. Again, these help with astigmatism and short-sightedness. \nLearn more about ",{"data":1078,"content":1080,"nodeType":221},{"uri":1079},"\u002Fcontact-lenses\u002Fbuyers-guide",[1081],{"data":1082,"marks":1083,"value":1084,"nodeType":143},{},[],"contact lenses ",{"data":1086,"marks":1087,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1089,"content":1090,"nodeType":190},{},[1091],{"data":1092,"marks":1093,"value":1094,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contacts ",{"data":1096,"content":1097,"nodeType":152},{},[1098],{"data":1099,"marks":1100,"value":1101,"nodeType":143},{},[],"RGP contact lenses are made of a rigid breathable plastic that creates a tear layer the shape of the cornea. This corrects it to fit the natural shape of the lens. They are easy to put in and take out, though they may take a little getting used to at first.",{"data":1103,"content":1104,"nodeType":190},{},[1105],{"data":1106,"marks":1107,"value":1108,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Scleral keratoconus contacts ",{"data":1110,"content":1111,"nodeType":152},{},[1112],{"data":1113,"marks":1114,"value":1115,"nodeType":143},{},[],"A scleral lens is a large, made‑to‑measure lens that sits on the sclera (the whites of your eyes), rather than on your cornea. Since your sclera is less sensitive than your cornea, these lenses can be more comfortable to use. ",{"data":1117,"content":1118,"nodeType":190},{},[1119],{"data":1120,"marks":1121,"value":1122,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Piggybacking with contact lenses ",{"data":1124,"content":1125,"nodeType":152},{},[1126],{"data":1127,"marks":1128,"value":1129,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Piggybacking is when you wear a pair of soft contact lenses underneath a hard RGP lens. It can help to prevent the rigid RGP lens from irritating the surface of your cornea. ",{"data":1131,"content":1132,"nodeType":190},{},[1133],{"data":1134,"marks":1135,"value":1136,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Changes to behaviour",{"data":1138,"content":1139,"nodeType":152},{},[1140,1144,1152,1156,1162],{"data":1141,"marks":1142,"value":1143,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Since keratoconus is often caused by excessive eye rubbing, your optometrist may recommend ways to change this habit. If allergies are making you rub your eyes, medication might help. If dry eye syndrome is the underlying cause, artificial tears could be beneficial. \nLearn more about ",{"data":1145,"content":1147,"nodeType":221},{"uri":1146},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fhay-fever",[1148],{"data":1149,"marks":1150,"value":1151,"nodeType":143},{},[],"hay fever ",{"data":1153,"marks":1154,"value":1155,"nodeType":143},{},[],"and ",{"data":1157,"content":1158,"nodeType":221},{"uri":757},[1159],{"data":1160,"marks":1161,"value":762,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1163,"marks":1164,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1166,"content":1167,"nodeType":190},{},[1168],{"data":1169,"marks":1170,"value":1171,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Collagen cross linking (CXL)",{"data":1173,"content":1174,"nodeType":152},{},[1175],{"data":1176,"marks":1177,"value":1178,"nodeType":143},{},[],"This hospital treatment helps to stop keratoconus from getting worse. It uses vitamin B2 eye drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen the cornea. If your optometrist thinks it could help, they’ll refer you to an eye specialist for assessment and treatment. ",{"data":1180,"content":1181,"nodeType":190},{},[1182],{"data":1183,"marks":1184,"value":1185,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Keratoconus surgery",{"data":1187,"content":1188,"nodeType":152},{},[1189],{"data":1190,"marks":1191,"value":1192,"nodeType":143},{},[],"In some cases, where the cornea is very thin or scarred, surgery may be needed. This could involve laser treatment to reshape the cornea or a transplant to replace it. Your optometrist will explain your options and refer you to an eye hospital if needed. ",{"data":1194,"content":1197,"nodeType":161},{"target":1195},{"sys":1196},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":1199,"content":1200,"nodeType":152},{},[1201],{"data":1202,"marks":1203,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":1205},{"block":1206},[1207],{"__typename":158,"sys":1208,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":129,"sys":1210,"theme":131,"genericTextComponent":1211},{"id":75},{"json":1212,"links":1240},{"data":1213,"content":1214,"nodeType":169},{},[1215,1222,1229,1234],{"data":1216,"content":1217,"nodeType":144},{},[1218],{"data":1219,"marks":1220,"value":1221,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Can keratoconus be prevented? ",{"data":1223,"content":1224,"nodeType":152},{},[1225],{"data":1226,"marks":1227,"value":1228,"nodeType":143},{},[],"It's not always possible to prevent keratoconus - some of the things that cause it (like genetics or hormonal changes) are out of your control. But there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. \n \nMost importantly, you should avoid excessive eye rubbing, since this can make the cornea weaker and thinner. You can also reduce exposure to environmental factors too. For example, wearing UV protected sunglasses reduces the effects of UV radiation. Staying away from things that cause allergies or taking antihistamines can also help. \n \nHaving regular eye examinations can also help catch the condition early, and potentially stop it from progressing. ",{"data":1230,"content":1233,"nodeType":161},{"target":1231},{"sys":1232},{"id":157,"type":158,"linkType":159},[],{"data":1235,"content":1236,"nodeType":152},{},[1237],{"data":1238,"marks":1239,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"entries":1241},{"block":1242},[1243],{"__typename":158,"sys":1244,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":157},{"__typename":1246,"sys":1247,"title":1248,"theme":515,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1249},"Accordion",{"id":80},"Your keratoconus questions, answered ",{"items":1250},[1251,1267,1282,1297,1312,1327,1342,1357,1372],{"__typename":1252,"sys":1253,"panel":1255,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1266},"Faq",{"id":1254},"SBdbZczi94VDLwIgFDUrW",{"json":1256},{"data":1257,"content":1258,"nodeType":169},{},[1259],{"data":1260,"content":1261,"nodeType":152},{},[1262],{"data":1263,"marks":1264,"value":1265,"nodeType":143},{},[],"It's extremely unlikely you will go blind from keratoconus - only in the rarest of circumstances will it lead to severe vision loss. However, the condition can progress to a level where poor vision can affect your normal life. ","Will you go blind from keratoconus?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1268,"panel":1270,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1281},{"id":1269},"3TtJl5kvjWMHLGGvnER9Bu",{"json":1271},{"data":1272,"content":1273,"nodeType":169},{},[1274],{"data":1275,"content":1276,"nodeType":152},{},[1277],{"data":1278,"marks":1279,"value":1280,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Although keratoconus and astigmatism have some similar symptoms, they're very different conditions. Astigmatism is when the cornea has an uneven curve - it's usually treated with glasses. Keratoconus is a progressive disease caused by the thinning of the cornea, which means it starts to bulge. ","Keratoconus vs astigmatism - what's the difference?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1283,"panel":1285,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1296},{"id":1284},"4RjLeYkCfvpSzrRoeedcHM",{"json":1286},{"data":1287,"content":1288,"nodeType":169},{},[1289],{"data":1290,"content":1291,"nodeType":152},{},[1292],{"data":1293,"marks":1294,"value":1295,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Yes, keratoconus can make you have headaches. Many people with keratoconus experience light sensitivity, which can lead to headaches. Also, people with keratoconus are often wearing the wrong prescription lenses because their sight changes so often. ","Do keratoconus symptoms include headache?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1298,"panel":1300,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1311},{"id":1299},"1yNijfvuf5VyCrmaklyXrM",{"json":1301},{"data":1302,"content":1303,"nodeType":169},{},[1304],{"data":1305,"content":1306,"nodeType":152},{},[1307],{"data":1308,"marks":1309,"value":1310,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Possibly. There is some evidence that keratoconus seems to run in families. If you have keratoconus, it could therefore increase your child's chance of having it, but we don't yet know how much of a role genes play. It also depends on their other parent's genes - your child simply might not inherit the keratoconus gene from you. Many other non-genetic factors also play a big part in keratoconus - such as hormonal imbalances, environment, and eye rubbing. ","Can you pass keratoconus down to your kids? ",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1313,"panel":1315,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1326},{"id":1314},"2Vttjs1qEzPBDmiEmyiQJV",{"json":1316},{"data":1317,"content":1318,"nodeType":169},{},[1319],{"data":1320,"content":1321,"nodeType":152},{},[1322],{"data":1323,"marks":1324,"value":1325,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Yes, most people lead a normal life with keratoconus in New Zealand. If you are receiving treatment with glasses or contact lenses, you should be able to carry on doing all the normal things you'd like to do. However, if it goes untreated or progresses rapidly, it could make your vision much worse, meaning everyday activities (from playing sports to reading to watching TV or driving) become much harder. This is why it's important to have regular eye checks if you have keratoconus. ","Can you have a normal life with keratoconus?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1328,"panel":1330,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1341},{"id":1329},"5Uj0jJ5QBBeELbjPoehzjM",{"json":1331},{"data":1332,"content":1333,"nodeType":169},{},[1334],{"data":1335,"content":1336,"nodeType":152},{},[1337],{"data":1338,"marks":1339,"value":1340,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Most people with keratoconus don't need surgery. The majority of people's vision problems can be treated with keratoconus glasses or lenses. If the condition has progressed, procedures like crosslinking can be really effective. However, if the scarring is very extensive, the cornea is really thin or the cornea is bulging very far, then surgery might be the best option. ","Should you get keratoconus surgery?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1343,"panel":1345,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1356},{"id":1344},"1AsoQjdRvY4lNwzK81LGA1",{"json":1346},{"data":1347,"content":1348,"nodeType":169},{},[1349],{"data":1350,"content":1351,"nodeType":152},{},[1352],{"data":1353,"marks":1354,"value":1355,"nodeType":143},{},[],"The best way to slow the progression of keratoconus is to have regular appointments with your optometrist. They can monitor how the condition is progressing, and advise on ways to slow it. These might include lifestyle changes, new types of contact lenses, and potentially procedures like corneal cross linking. ","How do you slow the progression of keratoconus?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1358,"panel":1360,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1371},{"id":1359},"17pAxY4iaL3sQzSeoQ9WrU",{"json":1361},{"data":1362,"content":1363,"nodeType":169},{},[1364],{"data":1365,"content":1366,"nodeType":152},{},[1367],{"data":1368,"marks":1369,"value":1370,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Yes, in places like New Zealand where there is a very high level of UV radiation, this can cause damage to the cornea, and potentially contribute to progressing keratoconus. This is why it's important to wear sunglasses with UV filters when outdoors. ","Are high UV levels a risk for keratoconus in New Zealand?",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1373,"panel":1375,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1341},{"id":1374},"6ZYsXB2BI3HLiZf4PEGjFZ",{"json":1376},{"data":1377,"content":1378,"nodeType":169},{},[1379],{"data":1380,"content":1381,"nodeType":152},{},[1382],{"data":1383,"marks":1384,"value":1385,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Most people with keratoconus don't need surgery. The majority of people's vision problems can be treated with keratoconus glasses or lenses. If the condition has progressed, procedures like crosslinking can be really effective. However, if the scarring is very extensive, the cornea is really thin or the cornea is bulging very far, then surgery might be the best option.",{"__typename":1387,"sys":1388,"title":1390,"body":1391,"theme":1392,"buttonCollection":1393},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":1389},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","AA Members are entitled to a free eye test (valued at $60), once every two years. Remember to present your AA Membership card in-store.","Block Colour",{"items":1394},[1395,1398],{"linkText":1396,"linkUrl":1397,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment","\u002Fstores",{"linkText":1399,"linkUrl":1400,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions",{"__typename":1402,"sys":1403,"title":1405,"backgroundTheme":515,"authorEntriesCollection":1406},"AuthorContainer",{"id":1404},"4V6bTXKdVZC3JuyZ9yFfXE","Written with care and checked for accuracy ",{"items":1407},[1408],{"authorBiography":1409,"authorName":1427,"authorQualification":1428,"authorPhoto":1429},{"json":1410},{"data":1411,"content":1412,"nodeType":169},{},[1413,1420],{"data":1414,"content":1415,"nodeType":152},{},[1416],{"data":1417,"marks":1418,"value":1419,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Dabin graduated with a Bachelor of Optometry (Hons.) from the University of Auckland in 2014. She has diverse clinical experience, including roles at Specsavers and other stores across metro and regional areas in New Zealand, with FIFO involvement. ",{"data":1421,"content":1422,"nodeType":152},{},[1423],{"data":1424,"marks":1425,"value":1426,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Currently, Dabin serves as a Clinical Performance Consultant in NZ. In this role, she optimises clinical care and business results for partners and optometrists, aiming for improved patient outcomes and operational excellence.","Dabin Kim","BOptom (Hons)TPA",{"url":1430},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F5kI37q4ENnAdlJWR3QZC9h\u002Fdfb90d6675a6491a0f2698de9ea420a8\u002FDabin_Kim.jpg",{"__typename":1432,"sys":1433,"title":1435,"theme":515,"listType":1436,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1437},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":1434},"1vB0Ay4xC97VUetVfi9QX0","Sources we've used","Numbered",{"items":1438},[1439,1447,1454,1460,1467],{"__typename":1440,"sys":1441,"citationAuthor":1443,"citationYear":1444,"citationDescription":1445,"citationUrl":1446,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},"Citation",{"id":1442},"2r8676fFUra3dJWP0gFUWj","Loukovitis, E., et al ",2018,"Genetic Aspects of Keratoconus: A Literature Review Exploring Potential Genetic Contributions and Possible Genetic Relationships with Comorbidities.","https:\u002F\u002Fpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\u002Farticles\u002FPMC6258591\u002F",{"__typename":1440,"sys":1448,"citationAuthor":1450,"citationYear":1451,"citationDescription":1452,"citationUrl":1453,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1449},"3jthxSolYAVZCgBbiUTrYF","Mayo Clinic",2025,"Keratoconus.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mayoclinic.org\u002Fdiseases-conditions\u002Fkeratoconus\u002Fsymptoms-causes\u002Fsyc-20351352",{"__typename":1440,"sys":1455,"citationAuthor":1457,"citationYear":1444,"citationDescription":1458,"citationUrl":1459,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1456},"1fK2xWHfBz3cc2YMHZGuKv","Omer, K. ","Epidemiology of Keratoconus Worldwide.\n","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sciencedirect.com\u002Forg\u002Fscience\u002Farticle\u002Fpii\u002FS1874364118000450",{"__typename":1440,"sys":1461,"citationAuthor":1463,"citationYear":1464,"citationDescription":1465,"citationUrl":1466,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1462},"6kZKqP37tiuceaO2peDuy","Review of Optometry ",2024,"New Evidence Strengthens the Link Between Air Pollution and Keratoconus.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reviewofoptometry.com\u002Fnews\u002Farticle\u002Fnew-evidence-strengthens-the-link-between-air-pollution-and-keratoconus",{"__typename":1440,"sys":1468,"citationAuthor":1470,"citationYear":1451,"citationDescription":1471,"citationUrl":1472,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1469},"1ajoTp8zgzPYEQYVutKZcT","Keratoconus NZ","About Keratoconus.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.kcnz.co.nz\u002F",{"__typename":1246,"sys":1474,"title":1476,"theme":1477,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1478},{"id":1475},"laBVxgiIQAfDTmwPGkwda","Could it be something else?","Grey",{"items":1479},[1480,1512,1542,1574,1605,1637,1669,1700,1731,1762,1788,1820],{"__typename":1252,"sys":1481,"panel":1483,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1511},{"id":1482},"15AA3Z4bep1QE8k6Sffj1T",{"json":1484},{"data":1485,"content":1486,"nodeType":169},{},[1487,1494],{"data":1488,"content":1489,"nodeType":152},{},[1490],{"data":1491,"marks":1492,"value":1493,"nodeType":143},{},[],"If your vision looks misty or washed out, especially in bright light or when driving at night, it could be cataracts. ",{"data":1495,"content":1496,"nodeType":152},{},[1497,1500,1508],{"data":1498,"marks":1499,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1501,"content":1503,"nodeType":221},{"uri":1502},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcataract",[1504],{"data":1505,"marks":1506,"value":1507,"nodeType":143},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about cataracts",{"data":1509,"marks":1510,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Cataracts",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1513,"panel":1515,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":296},{"id":1514},"1FAVjC1oHPKyfFmXGXdEiZ",{"json":1516},{"data":1517,"content":1518,"nodeType":169},{},[1519,1526],{"data":1520,"content":1521,"nodeType":152},{},[1522],{"data":1523,"marks":1524,"value":1525,"nodeType":143},{},[],"When your cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball, it can cause astigmatism, leading to blurred or distorted vision. ",{"data":1527,"content":1528,"nodeType":152},{},[1529,1532,1539],{"data":1530,"marks":1531,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1533,"content":1534,"nodeType":221},{"uri":306},[1535],{"data":1536,"marks":1537,"value":1538,"nodeType":143},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about astigmatism",{"data":1540,"marks":1541,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"__typename":1252,"sys":1543,"panel":1545,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1573},{"id":1544},"4mfpRA1puPER3D0XoHnOrm",{"json":1546},{"nodeType":169,"data":1547,"content":1548},{},[1549,1556],{"nodeType":152,"data":1550,"content":1551},{},[1552],{"nodeType":143,"value":1553,"marks":1554,"data":1555},"Long-sightedness can cause blurry near vision even if your distance vision is fine. ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1557,"content":1558},{},[1559,1562,1570],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1560,"data":1561},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1563,"content":1565},{"uri":1564},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Flong-sightedness",[1566],{"nodeType":143,"value":1567,"marks":1568,"data":1569},"Learn more about long-sightedness",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1571,"data":1572},[],{},"Long-sightedness",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1575,"panel":1577,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1604},{"id":1576},"1mHwN4nuZfEOWpfwmi82eK",{"json":1578},{"data":1579,"content":1580,"nodeType":169},{},[1581,1588],{"data":1582,"content":1583,"nodeType":152},{},[1584],{"data":1585,"marks":1586,"value":1587,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Short-sightedness (myopia) affects distance vision, but usually doesn’t impact close-up tasks. ",{"data":1589,"content":1590,"nodeType":152},{},[1591,1594,1601],{"data":1592,"marks":1593,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],{"data":1595,"content":1596,"nodeType":221},{"uri":281},[1597],{"data":1598,"marks":1599,"value":1600,"nodeType":143},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about myopia",{"data":1602,"marks":1603,"value":168,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Myopia",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1606,"panel":1608,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1636},{"id":1607},"4bDYUgcgeKDdBV06QSomeY",{"json":1609},{"nodeType":169,"data":1610,"content":1611},{},[1612,1619],{"nodeType":152,"data":1613,"content":1614},{},[1615],{"nodeType":143,"value":1616,"marks":1617,"data":1618},"Glaucoma can develop gradually and cause vision loss if not caught early, often affecting side vision first. ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1620,"content":1621},{},[1622,1625,1633],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1623,"data":1624},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1626,"content":1628},{"uri":1627},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fglaucoma",[1629],{"nodeType":143,"value":1630,"marks":1631,"data":1632},"Learn more about glaucoma",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1634,"data":1635},[],{},"Glaucoma",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1638,"panel":1640,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1668},{"id":1639},"gOcTj4Nt398MZCPL58idB",{"json":1641},{"nodeType":169,"data":1642,"content":1643},{},[1644,1651],{"nodeType":152,"data":1645,"content":1646},{},[1647],{"nodeType":143,"value":1648,"marks":1649,"data":1650},"Diabetes can affect the blood vessels at the back of your eye, leading to diabetic retinopathy and vision problems. ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1652,"content":1653},{},[1654,1657,1665],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1655,"data":1656},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1658,"content":1660},{"uri":1659},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdiabetic-retinopathy",[1661],{"nodeType":143,"value":1662,"marks":1663,"data":1664},"Learn more about diabetic retinopathy",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1666,"data":1667},[],{},"Diabetic retinopathy",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1670,"panel":1672,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1699},{"id":1671},"4X16xsgvQu0AWGHTUfTKWR",{"json":1673},{"nodeType":169,"data":1674,"content":1675},{},[1676,1683],{"nodeType":152,"data":1677,"content":1678},{},[1679],{"nodeType":143,"value":1680,"marks":1681,"data":1682},"If your sight seems foggy or blurred, it could be caused by cataracts or another condition affecting your eye health.",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1684,"content":1685},{},[1686,1689,1696],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1687,"data":1688},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1690,"content":1691},{"uri":410},[1692],{"nodeType":143,"value":1693,"marks":1694,"data":1695},"Learn more about cloudy vision",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1697,"data":1698},[],{},"Cloudy vision",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1701,"panel":1703,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1730},{"id":1702},"4VhWR2SDxcMHyoSDB8pHcw",{"json":1704},{"nodeType":169,"data":1705,"content":1706},{},[1707,1714],{"nodeType":152,"data":1708,"content":1709},{},[1710],{"nodeType":143,"value":1711,"marks":1712,"data":1713},"Double vision means seeing two images of a single object, which can happen when the eyes are not aligned or working together properly",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1715,"content":1716},{},[1717,1720,1727],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1718,"data":1719},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1721,"content":1722},{"uri":242},[1723],{"nodeType":143,"value":1724,"marks":1725,"data":1726},"Learn more about double vision",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1728,"data":1729},[],{},"Double vision",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1732,"panel":1734,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1761},{"id":1733},"7mc540GM3NCETmDMRwhmkD",{"json":1735},{"nodeType":169,"data":1736,"content":1737},{},[1738,1745],{"nodeType":152,"data":1739,"content":1740},{},[1741],{"nodeType":143,"value":1742,"marks":1743,"data":1744},"Do your eyes feel tried, sore or gritty? Dry eye could be the culprit, making vision cloudy, or as if you have glazed eyes.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1746,"content":1747},{},[1748,1751,1758],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1749,"data":1750},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1752,"content":1753},{"uri":757},[1754],{"nodeType":143,"value":1755,"marks":1756,"data":1757},"Learn more about dry eye syndrome",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1759,"data":1760},[],{},"Dry eye syndrome",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1763,"panel":1765,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1787},{"id":1764},"6sph0EhfxHAauLd3xttQTt",{"json":1766},{"data":1767,"content":1768,"nodeType":169},{},[1769],{"data":1770,"content":1771,"nodeType":152},{},[1772,1776,1784],{"data":1773,"marks":1774,"value":1775,"nodeType":143},{},[],"This is when the edges of your eyelids get inflamed due to an infection or skin problem. It can also make the whites of your eyes appear pink or red. \n \n",{"data":1777,"content":1779,"nodeType":221},{"uri":1778},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fblepharitis",[1780],{"data":1781,"marks":1782,"value":1783,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Learn more about blepharitis",{"data":1785,"marks":1786,"value":225,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Blepharitis",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1789,"panel":1791,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1819},{"id":1790},"6HnYqzGONrABkz1cMtGwxw",{"json":1792},{"nodeType":169,"data":1793,"content":1794},{},[1795,1802],{"nodeType":152,"data":1796,"content":1797},{},[1798],{"nodeType":143,"value":1799,"marks":1800,"data":1801},"Seeing specks, spots or sudden flashes of light? These are common – but can also be a sign of a serious eye condition. It is worth checking out if they’re new or getting worse.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1803,"content":1804},{},[1805,1808,1816],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1806,"data":1807},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1809,"content":1811},{"uri":1810},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-floaters",[1812],{"nodeType":143,"value":1813,"marks":1814,"data":1815},"Learn more about floaters and flashes",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1817,"data":1818},[],{},"Floaters and flashes ",{"__typename":1252,"sys":1821,"panel":1823,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1851},{"id":1822},"3FwQiOhvnRsdqKOfP0rR5p",{"json":1824},{"nodeType":169,"data":1825,"content":1826},{},[1827,1834],{"nodeType":152,"data":1828,"content":1829},{},[1830],{"nodeType":143,"value":1831,"marks":1832,"data":1833},"A chalazion is a blocked oil gland in the eyelid that causes a firm, usually painless lump and can lead to eyelid swelling or blurred vision.",[],{},{"nodeType":152,"data":1835,"content":1836},{},[1837,1840,1848],{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1838,"data":1839},[],{},{"nodeType":221,"data":1841,"content":1843},{"uri":1842},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fchalazion",[1844],{"nodeType":143,"value":1845,"marks":1846,"data":1847},"Learn more about chalazions",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":143,"value":168,"marks":1849,"data":1850},[],{},"Chalazion",{"__typename":1853,"sys":1854,"title":1856,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":515,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1857},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1855},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1858},[1859,1867,1875],{"title":1860,"body":1861,"imageAltText":1862,"linkText":1863,"linkUrl":1864,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1865},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fdo-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1866},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr\u002F22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189\u002Feye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1868,"body":1869,"imageAltText":1870,"linkText":1871,"linkUrl":1872,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1873},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fyour-store-visit-explained",{"url":1874},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi\u002Fffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785\u002Feye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1876,"body":1877,"imageAltText":1878,"linkText":1879,"linkUrl":1880,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1881},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","\u002Feye-tests",{"url":1882},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9\u002F47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1\u002Feye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":1432,"sys":1884,"title":1886,"theme":1477,"listType":1887,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1888},{"id":1885},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1889},[1890],{"__typename":1891,"body":1892},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1893},{"data":1894,"content":1895,"nodeType":169},{},[1896],{"data":1897,"content":1898,"nodeType":152},{},[1899],{"data":1900,"marks":1901,"value":1902,"nodeType":143},{},[],"Free exam for AA Members applies to standard eye examinations only, normally valued at $60. Excludes contact lens examination and visual field checks. Limited to one per AA Member every two years. Available to current AA Members upon presentation of AA Membership card.",[17,17,17],1784207056758]