Trachoma

What are the symptoms of trachoma?

Following are the common symptoms of trachoma that are developed gradually and vary depending on the nature of the infection:-

• Irritation and redness of the eyes and eyelids.
• Eye discharge – Mucus or pus may be present.
• The eyelids become puffy by appearance.
• Sensitivity to Light – Also known as photophobia, sensitivity to light causes irritation and discomfort to the eyes.
• Painful eyes – Particularly in later stages when the eyelashes start to scrape the cornea.
• Blurred Eyesight- Such a condition occurs due to damage to the Trichea associated with damage to the Cornea of an eye.
• Scarring of the inner eyelid – In advanced stages, scarring is visible, leading to deformation of the eyelid and eyelashes.

What causes trachoma?

Following are the factors contributing to the eruption of Trachoma that is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, after coming directly into contact with eye, nose, or throat secretions from infected individuals. The disease is often transmitted by:-

• Touching eyes or faces contaminated with the bacteria
• Sharing towels, hanky or clothing
• Flies – They transmit infection through bacteria from one person to another in dirty or unhygienic conditions spreading the disease.

How is trachoma diagnosed?

Following are the ways to diagnose Trachoma based on clinical examination and history of the patient:-

• Eye Checkups.
• Lid Eversion.
• Laboratory Tests – Swabs taken from the eye are tested to check presence of Chlamydia Trachomatis bacteria.

What are the treatment options for trachoma?

Following are a few preventive treatments needed to be provided on time as per the condition of the patient:-

• Antibiotics – Oral or topical antibiotics, such as Azithromycin, are used to treat active infections and reduce the spread of bacteria.
• Supportive care – Lubricating eye drops and other treatments may be prescribed to relieve discomfort.
• Surgery –

How can trachoma be prevented?

Prevention focuses on improving hygiene and sanitation:-

• Facial cleanliness – Regular washing of the face and hands helps reduce transmission.
• Use of Clean Drinkable Water.
• Proper waste disposal – Reducing fly populations through waste management can help limit transmission.
• Community health education – Public health programs that promote hygiene and sanitation practices are essential in areas where trachoma is common.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the SAFE strategy to prevent trachoma:-S –  Surgery for advanced disease.
   A – Antibiotics to treat active infections.
   F – Facial cleanliness to reduce transmission.
   E – Environmental improvement to reduce the risk of infection.

What is the outlook for people with trachoma?

The outlook for individuals with trachoma largely depends on the stage of the disease when treatment begins but timely diagnosis and best treatment under the supervision of health experts, helps the patients recover without long-term complications. However, repeated infections without treatment can lead to blindness. Surgical intervention can often prevent further vision loss in advanced cases of Trichiasis, but any existing damage to the cornea may not be fully reversible.

How can someone live with trachoma and manage its effects?

Living with trachoma, especially in its advanced stages, requires ongoing care and attention:-

• Follow-up care – Regular eye check-ups are essential for individuals at risk of recurrent infections or complications from Trichiasis.
• Surgical care – For those who have undergone surgery, post-operative care is important to ensure healing and prevent recurrence.
• Hygiene practices – Maintaining good hygiene, such as washing the face and hands regularly, is critical in preventing re-infection.
• Community support – Living in areas where trachoma is prevalent may require community-wide efforts to improve hygiene and sanitation conditions to control the spread of the disease.

With effective prevention, early treatment, and proper care, the impact of trachoma can be significantly reduced, allowing individuals to maintain healthy vision and quality of life.

Why Choose Tender Palm Eye Hospital for Trachoma Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Eye Hospital is among the top eye care centres in Lucknow, offering expert diagnosis and treatment for Trachoma – a contagious bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Our team of skilled ophthalmologists and eye surgeons is well-versed in managing all stages of trachoma, from early inflammation to advanced scarring.

Using precise diagnostic methods and WHO-recommended treatment protocols, including antibiotic therapy and surgical correction for Trichiasis, we aim to halt the progression of the disease and preserve vision. We also provide comprehensive vision care, hygiene education, and follow-up support to prevent reinfection. With compassionate care and advanced facilities, Tender Palm Eye Hospital is committed to eliminating avoidable blindness from trachoma.

To Schedule an Expert Consultation for Trachoma Treatment in Lucknow, India