Can I develop keratoconus in my early twenties?

Q: Q. I am a 22 years old male with astigmatism in both eyes. My left eye is worse -2.25 spherical and -5.25 cylindrical. I had an ophthalmology consultation two days ago and the doctor said he found no evidence of keratoconus. I am hoping to get enlisted in the military soon and so am worried that I might develop keratoconus, which is a disqualifying condition, before I ship out. My eyes have gotten slightly worse with time ever since I was a teenager. Can I develop keratoconus at this age?

A:You have not mentioned your vision, with and without correction. Chances of developing keratoconus are remote at this age as your eyes have more or less stopped growing. I will advise you however not to rub your eyes as this is one of the factors causing or worsening Keratoconus. You could also improve your visual acuity by wearing gas-permeable hard contact lenses to correct your astigmatism.