Patient Relations
Keratoconus is an eye disease that affects the Cornea, the clear transparent part of the eye. This disease causes progressive thinning and protrusion of the cornea giving it a conical shape. This conical shape leads to poor vision that cannot be fully corrected with spectacles. The disease usually starts in the early teenage years and can progress silently. It affects both eyes however both do not progress at the same rate which is usually the reason why it is diagnosed late until significant vision deterioration has occurred.
Keratoconus can pass on genetically or can occur without any significant family history. It’s also common in people that suffer from allergic conditions and are frequent eye rubbers. It can also occur as part of a few genetic syndromes e.g. Retinitis Pigmentosa, Down Syndrome, Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome, hay fever, etc. It’s very important to get screened for this condition if there is a family history of the disease.
The most common symptom of this disease is not being able to get a good prescription for glasses from the optometrist. Sometimes there is trouble driving at night with significant glare and haloes. The eye looks normal but doesn’t seem normal.
Screening for the disease is simple. One test of the eye can diagnose the condition. The test is a simple non-contact image of the eye that takes only five minutes.
In the past few years, there has been a very effective treatment for Keratoconus. This is called Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking which is a minor treatment that uses UA light and Vitamin B 2. This treatment strengthens the cornea and stops further progression of the disease however it cannot reverse the process. In other words, it will prevent further deterioration of vision but not reverse vision loss.
In the case of advanced disease where there is significant vision deterioration that cannot be treated with spectacles or contact lenses can be treated with the replacement of the cornea with corneal transplantation from a donor.
Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare is conducting a Keratoconus screening research program to diagnose this disease early and manage it accordingly to improve the quality of life by preserving good vision.
If you are interested in participating in the research program, please visit the Keratoconus Screening Program page
JHAH joins the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action and the MOH in supporting World Breastfeeding Week
A good night’s sleep can help repair damaged heart and blood vessels. We have simple tips to help you sleep better
The good, and bad news about breast cancer – and how to fight it
Find out how changes to how we manage the pain of sickle cell disease have led to a massive drop in emergency care and hospitalization
A few ideas for a good nutrition program that can help strengthen your immune system
There are many health and nutrition tips that can boost your immune system
The Kingdom is the second in the Middle East and the seventh globally in the rate of Type 2 diabetes, find out how you can take control of your diabetes and lead a healthy life
Health issues related to sun exposure and how you can protect yourself
Include fruits in your daily menu, in whichever way you like, and stay healthy
Heart attacks often occur when people are alone. Knowing what to do when heart attack symptoms come on can save your life
Encouraging people who suffer from obesity to take part in safe solutions to weight loss, lifestyle change, and weight maintenance
We tend to forget that the sun’s shine and brightness can be quite harmful during the summer. Tips to stay healthy and cool during summer
No matter what type of medicine your doctor prescribes, it's always important to be safe and follow medication safety measures
Learn about Alzheimer’s disease, it's symptoms, causes and risk factors, and what to do if you have Alzheimer's disease
Proper nutrition and exercise play important roles in reducing the risk of breast cancer
Can save lives by either killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing.
Collecting your medication from the pharmacist is not just a medication transaction but an opportunity to enhance your understanding of the medication and better care for your health.
JHAH Tawazon Program works with pre-diabetic patients to help them modify their lifestyle to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes
Here are a few essential points to discuss with your pharmacist to better understand your medication to ensure your wellbeing.
A few tips to help parents of children with autism enjoy a happy Eid with family and friends.
Four simple and practical guidelines that will help you to keep safe from food-borne diseases in your kitchen
Read our expert advice on blood donation guidelines and how you can play a role in saving lives
Protect your medications against the heat of summer with a few simple tips
Start your day with nutritious foods to boost your energy and metabolism levels
JHAH Clinical Nutrition and Food Services Unit is here to help you make your sweets healthier, lighter and heart friendly
Important techniques to ensure effective delivery of medications to the lungs
Signs of dehydration indoors, symptoms to watch, and tips to stay hydrated even without thirst.
Three ENT surgeries significantly improve the breathing of a 21-year-old patient.
Colon cancer screening can detect the disease in its early and treatable stages
Scientifically backed tips to keep your skin in top condition.
Enjoy being outdoors while keeping your skin healthy, protected and radiant
Discover key tips to prevent infections this flu season and effective home remedies to manage cold symptoms.
Explore the vital role of vitamin D in health and learn how to maintain adequate levels through diet and sunlight.
Explore essential insights on breast cancer, its risks, symptoms, and treatment options.
Join us for International Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day as we raise awareness and clear misconceptions.
Explore the risks of falling and learn key effective prevention strategies.
Iron deficiency anemia, its causes, symptoms and effective dietary strategies.
Discover the importance of selecting the right pillow for alleviating neck and shoulder pain and enhancing sleep quality.
Discover essential practices for reducing infection risks. Stay informed and protect your health and the health of others
JHAH Clinical Nutrition is here to help with some practical and creative tips to serve fruits and vegetables to children
JHAH Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician provides the three pillars to start with for your child’s smooth return to physical attendance in schools
JHAH offers a few tips to help reduce the stress associated with returning to school so your children are healthy and prepared
JHAH is conducting a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign to encourage everyone to get their children vaccinated
Through immunizations, we are able to protect our families from infectious disease. Find out more about our recommended child vaccination schedule at JHAH
Dhahran Oasis Quilt Guild has taken dedication to an entirely new level in guild’s 21st anniversary.
A groundbreaking medication brings elevated cholesterol levels back to normal.
