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Define Trachoma

Trachoma is an infection that occurs in the eye. Though the infection may not sound harmful, if not treated as soon as possible, it can cause severe and lifelong damage to the eye. According to the Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS) website, trachoma is still the leading cause of blindness across the world. Knowing more about trachoma and how to treat and prevent the infection will help in not contracting it.

  1. Definition

    • Trachoma is an eye infection caused by bacteria, specifically Chlamydia trachomatis. According to Dictionary.com, Chlamydia trachomatis is "a species of Chlamydia that causes trachoma, inclusion conjunctivitis, lymphogranuloma venereum, nonspecific urethritis, and proctitis in humans." Trachoma can be spread by being directly in contact with eye, nose or throat secretion or by items or objects that may contain the bacteria.

    Occurrence

    • Though the disease can affect anyone, it is usually seen in children. According to MedlinePlus, trachoma is often found is underdeveloped countries or wherever poverty is dominate, but the condition is worldwide. People who live in over-crowded areas such as Africa or people who exercise poor hygiene are more likely to catch trachoma. According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that about 8 million people are affected by trachoma worldwide.

    Symptoms

    • General symptoms of trachoma include: swollen eyelids, discharge from the eye, smeary cornea, eye pain and trichiasis (when eyelashes are turned in or grow irregularly). The first symptoms of trachoma are redness of the eyes, watering eyes and swollen eyelids. More serious symptoms, such as small, red eyelid lumps, usually present one week after the first symptoms. Then these lumps enlarge and spread, eventually causing eye pain and corneal scarring as the trachoma becomes severe, over a span of about a month.

    Tests and Treatments

    • The most common test for trachoma is an eye exam. Scarring of the eye and growth of the cornea blood vessels will reveal if you have trachoma, according to the MedlinePlus. Antibiotics are prescribed for treatment, though eye surgery may be needed depending on the severity. The Mayo Clinic suggests that you write down all of your symptoms before your doctor's appointment.

    Complications

    • Trachoma has serious complications. If not treated soon enough, blindness can occur from scarring of the eye. Other medical complications include ulcers, scars and vision loss. Washing hands, having good hygiene and not sharing personal items such as a washcloth can prevent the spread of trachoma.

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