Trachoma
Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes The bacteria that cause trachoma are spread by direct contact with the eyes, eyelids, and nasal or throat secretions of infected people.
Trachoma is contagious and almost always affects both eyes Trachoma begins with mild itching and irritation of the eyes and eyelids, eventually leading to eye pain and blurred vision. Trachoma can lead to blindness if left untreated
If trachoma is treated early, its complications can be avoided
Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium also causes the sexually transmitted infection chlamydia
Trachoma is spread by contact with eye or nasal discharge from an infected person The disease can be spread by hands, towels, clothes and insects The main source of spread in developing countries is flies
Early signs and symptoms of trachoma are:
- Mild itching and irritation of the eyes and eyelids
- Pusulent or mucous discharge from the eyes
As the disease progresses, the symptoms of trachoma are added:
- Increased sensitivity to light
The World Health Organization divided the course of the disease into 5 stages These are:
- Inflammation - follicular At this stage, the infection has just begun Five or more follicles (bulges that replace lymphocytes) can be seen with a magnifying glass on the inner surface of the upper eyelid.
- Inflammation - acute At this stage, the disease worsens;
- Eyelid damage Repeated infection causes damage to the inner eyelid The damage appears as white lines under a magnifying glass The eyelid may turn inward (entropion).
- Ingrown eyelashes Due to the deformation of the inner membrane of the eyelid, ingrowth of eyelashes develops, due to which they rub and scratch the cornea of the eye.
- Cornea damage The cornea is damaged due to inflammation of the upper eyelid Prolonged inflammation and scratching of ingrown eyelashes leads to corneal abrasion Secondary infection can cause corneal ulcers and complete or partial blindness
All signs and symptoms of trachoma are more severe in the upper eyelid than in the lower. Trachoma can also damage the tear glands, causing dry eyes and worsening the problem.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your child has itchy, irritated, or runny eyes. Trachoma is a contagious disease, which is why timely treatment is necessary
