Is there a treatment for keratoconus?

Question

It's been over 20 years that I suffer from keratoconus. I solve the problem by wearing gas permeable hard lenses. I also have synthetic small rings inserted in both my cornea ro help flatten them. But still i need to wear my lenses to correct my vision and hence do daily activities such as driving, working on my laptop, etc..is there a natural treatment for this?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Namaste!

Your condition indicates a Vata-Pitta imbalance with underlying Ama (toxins) affecting digestion and skin health. Since you have celiac disease, your Agni (digestive fire) is already sensitive, and improper digestion can lead to toxin accumulation, manifesting as eczema.

Key Observations from Your Symptoms:
Hot & Dry Foods Worsen Eczema → This suggests aggravated Vata-Pitta, leading to excess dryness and inflammation.
Dairy Worsens Eczema → Indicating Ama formation (undigested toxins) or a Kapha-Pitta imbalance in your body.
Cucumber Improves Eczema → Cucumber is cooling and hydrating, helping pacify aggravated Pitta and Vata, reducing inflammation.
Ayurvedic Recommendations:
Dietary Guidelines to Balance Vata-Pitta:

Gluten-free diet must be strictly followed, as celiac disease weakens digestion.
Reduce excess dry & hot foods like dry fruits, spicy foods, fried items, and excessive nuts.
Alternative: Soak dry fruits overnight and consume them with A2 ghee to reduce dryness.
Dairy moderation: Since it aggravates your eczema, avoid yogurt and milk, but you may try small amounts of A2 ghee, which is more digestible and pacifies Vata.
Cooling, hydrating foods: Continue cucumber, bottle gourd (lauki), coconut water, soaked chia seeds, and fennel tea to pacify Pitta.
Herbal & Detox Strategies:

Daily mild detox to cleanse Pitta & Vata imbalance:
Aloe vera juice (15-20 ml in the morning) – Helps cool and cleanse the liver.
Neem & Manjistha powder (¼ tsp with warm water) – Purifies blood and reduces skin inflammation.
Triphala churna (½ tsp at night) – Supports digestion and detoxification.
Avoid excessive fasting or very light foods, as they can increase Vata. Instead, focus on warm, well-cooked meals with cooling herbs like coriander and fennel.
External Applications for Eczema:

Coconut oil or Neem-infused oil massage before a bath helps reduce dryness and inflammation.
Aloe vera & turmeric paste can be applied to affected areas to soothe itching and redness.
Lifestyle Adjustments:

Avoid stress & irregular eating habits, as they aggravate Vata-Pitta imbalance.
Gentle Yoga & Pranayama (Sheetali, Anulom-Vilom) helps in calming the body.
Panchakarma Therapy (Virechana) may be considered under expert supervision for long-term skin relief.
Final Recommendation:
Rather than relying on cucumber lifelong, adopt a seasonal Pitta-Vata balancing diet and lifestyle. Dry fruits can be included if soaked and eaten in moderation with ghee. Periodic detoxification and maintaining a cooling, nourishing diet will help you manage eczema and strengthen your digestion.

Swasthya Bhava!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Keratoconus is a challenging condition, and while modern medical treatments like hard lenses and corneal rings are effective, Ayurveda can offer supportive treatments to help strengthen and nourish the eyes, potentially improving overall eye health. In Ayurveda, the eyes are governed by the Pitta dosha, which can become aggravated, leading to issues like keratoconus. To support eye health naturally, you can try herbal remedies such as Triphala, which nourishes the eyes and may improve vision, and Amla, rich in vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties. Regular eye exercises, like Trataka (gazing at a candle flame), can help improve focus and reduce strain. Consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as green leafy vegetables, carrots, and sweet potatoes, may also help in maintaining eye health. However, Ayurveda can complement your existing treatment and should not replace your current eye care regimen—always consult with your ophthalmologist or an Ayurvedic expert for an individualized plan.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Keratoconus can indeed be tricky to handle and the treatments you've had like hard lenses and corneal rings are actually pretty common ways to manage it. But hey, when it comes to Ayurveda, we believe in approaching conditions by balancing the doshas, improving overall eye health, and nourishing the tissues involved. While it's not gonna replace conventional treatments, it can be a complementary approach you might find useful.

Firstly, let's consider your diet as a foundational aspect. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin A and C, like carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits, can help nourish your eye tissues. Avoid fried and excessively spicy foods, as they can aggravate Pitta dosha, potentially affecting your vision further. Including ghee in your meals can be soothing and nourishing, acting almost like a tonic for your eyes.

As for lifestyle, try practicing the Trataka technique, a yogic cleansing exercise. By focusing on a candle flame or a distant object, it can help strengthen eye muscles and might benefit vision clarity over time. Be cautious to not overstrain your eyes though.

In terms of herbal remedies, Triphala may be beneficial because it's a traditional formulation known to promote eye health. You can make a Triphala eye wash by soaking Triphala powder in warm water overnight, straining the mixture, and using it to gently rinse your eyes in the morning.

But, remember consistency is key. Ayurvedic approaches usually take a while to reflect changes, and it's important to be patient. It's also a good idea to work closely with your regular healthcare provider, especially since your condition is significant. They can keep track of how any alternative approaches are affecting your eye health.

note: Consult a healthcare professional before making or changing treatments, whater its ayurvedic or allopathic.

Is there a treatment for keratoconus? - #12194

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