Trachoma is one of the complications caused by chlamydia, a silent STD, which results in a type of chronic conjunctivitis, which lasts longer than usual 5 to 7 days.
This eye infection is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia Trachomatis, which is quite contagious, especially in its early stages.The person with chlamydia in the penis or vagina may accidentally transmit the bacteria to the eyes through the hands.
Learn to recognize the symptoms of chlamydia and how it’s treated
Symptoms begin to appear between 5 and 12 days after eye contact with the bacteria and are usually:
These symptoms are similar to those of conjunctivitis, but it lasts much longer with the production of secretion followed by the formation of scarring in the conjunctiva and cornea that cause the eyelashes to turn, making the disease even more painful and can injure the eyes, causing inflammation that can cause a permanent alteration of vision.
Diagnosis of trachoma may be made by the ophthalmologist by observing the symptoms presented and confirmed by examining the discharge produced by the eye or scratching the affected cornea.
Treatment involves applying antibiotic ointments for 4 to 6 weeks, or even taking oral antibiotics such as doxycycline, which is also used to treat other infections with the same Chlamydia Trachomatis bacteria.
Applying sterile compresses to saline-soaked eyes is a more enjoyable way to keep your eyes clean and free of bacteria, and then discard the ones used.
To treat the consequence of recurrent infections, which is the reversal of eyelashes in the eyes, you can use surgery, which corrects by reversing the birth meaning of the eyelashes up and out of the eye.Another alternative to solve the problem is the use of laser that burns the root of the hair preventing further growth.
Trachoma is an infection caused by bacteria, so maintaining hygiene is the most effective strategy to prevent trachoma, so it is recommended to always keep your hands and eyes clean with soap and clean water and not touch your eyes even if they seem washed, since it is not possible to observe microorganisms with the naked eye.