Trachoma is an infection of the eye which affects both eyes and is a worldwide leading reason for preventable blindness. Trachoma is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis.
In the early stages, trachoma causes conjunctivitis (pink eye). The early symptoms, which start showing up from 5 to 12 days after contact with the bacteria, can include slight itching, irritation of the eye and eyelids and tearing. As the infection develops, it also causes pain in the eyes and blurred vision. If the infection is untreated, scarring forms in the eyes. This causes the eyelashes to turn towards the eye – trichiasis. This constant irritation can cause the development of an ulcer on the cornea and loss of sight.
The early stage of trachoma rarely causes problems. Recurrent infection is believed to be what can lead to scarring, complications, and blindness. Overall, it takes years before trachoma can lead to vision loss.
Symptoms include itching and irritation to the eye and eyelids, tearing, pain in the eyes and blurred vision.
With the progress of the infection, the eyelashes turned towards the eye scratch the cornea. If this condition is not treated, the cornea becomes blurry and can develop ulcers.
Antibiotics are effective for the treatment of early stages of trachoma. Early treatment can prevent complications in the long term.
Progressed cases of trachoma can require surgery to change eyelash position for the lashes that grow towards the eye. This surgery can help avoid further damage to the cornea. Corneal transplantation is another surgical option, if the cornea is so blurred that the vision is seriously impaired.
Good hygiene, such as washing the face and hands is proven to decrease the transmission of trachoma.