Trachoma is an eye disease that affects many people. If untreated, this is a condition that can lead to discomfort and trouble. It is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. Trachoma is highly infectious and can lead to blindness at its advanced stages. This infection can be caused by direct or indirect contact with the affected person’s nose and eyes. It affects individuals at any age including children. This infection mainly affects the inner surface of the eye and the eyelids leading to pain. In severe cases, the eyelid will turn inwards leading to permanent blindness. It is estimated that over eighty million individuals are affected by this disease worldwide.
Types of trachoma infections
These are different t types and stages of trachoma. The following are the main types of trachoma infections.
Recurring trachoma
This is an eye infection that keeps on occurring again and again. It mainly affects people who have poor hygienic or those who do not have access to a healthy lifestyle and clean water.
Chronic trachoma
This is a serious eye infection that makes the eyelids to turn inwards leading to scratching of the cornea. If untreated, chronic trachoma can worsen leading to complete or partial blindness.
Acute trachoma
This type of infection is common with those individuals living in unhygienic, unhealthy and crowded places. It affects both adults and children. It starts with one eye and then spreads to the other one. Once affected, the eyes become itchy and painful. It is also characterized by swollen eyelids and a watery discharge.
What are the major causes of trachoma?
The causes of trachoma are well known, and it can be prevented easily. The common causes of this infection include
- Using unclean water
- Crowded living situations
- Poor personal hygiene
- Closeness with cattle using clothing/towels of infected person
- Indirect/direct contact with an infected person
Avoiding the situations mentioned above is a reliable solution for staying away from this blinding eye infection. Untreated or repeated trachoma is very dangerous because the eyelashes can scratch your cornea leading to permanent blindness or entropion.
Symptoms of trachoma
Trachoma is a painful condition, and its symptoms are similar to those of conjunctivitis. The following are the major symptoms associated with this eye condition.
- Eye discharge
- Swollen eyelids
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Itching/irritation in eyes
- Increased eye sensitivity
- Inward lashes
- Throat, ear, and nose complications
Treatment of trachoma
The treatment for trachoma should be done with care and on time. Waiting for the eyes to get cured naturally can lead to expose your eyes to more pain and even compromise your vision. The following are the effective treatment options for trachoma
- Homeopathic treatment
- Antibiotic therapy
- Surgery