Chlamydia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC), is the most often reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the United States with about 2.86 million infections happening annually. Although Chlamydia trachomatis happens in all age groups and impacts both men and women, it is most common in young women. The CDC approximates that 1 in 20 sexually active women aged 14-24 has chlamydia. While the infection is more common in the genital area, it’s likewise possible to contract a chlamydial eye infection. This is typically described as inclusion or chlamydial conjunctivitis.
Causes and Symptoms of Chlamydia in Eye
Inclusion conjunctivitis and trachoma is a bacterial eye infection that can cause swelling and itching. The bacteria that triggers this infection is Chlamydia trachomatis.
Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in developing nations.
Chlamydia trachomatis can be spread through contact, either direct or indirect. Initially, the infection may appear similar to the preliminary inflammatory signs of trachoma. However, it’s actually connected with the strains of chlamydia trachomatis that result in the genital infection.
Symptoms of a chlamydial eye infection include:
- redness in eyes
- irritation
- swollen eyelids
- mucous discharge
- tearing
- photophobia
- swollen lymph nodes around eyes
Chlamydial Eye Infections in Newborns
Newborns can contract a chlamydial eye infection, as the bacteria can pass to the child from the vaginal canal during delivery. Research shows 30 to half of infants whose mom has a chlamydial infection will contract neonatal conjunctivitis.
The best way to prevent passing a chlamydial eye infection to your newborn is to guarantee you’ve been treated for chlamydia prior to delivering.
Treatment
Chlamydial eye infections are treatable through antibiotics. Early detection is essential due to the fact that the condition might worsen in time. Your doctor will likely identify your condition utilizing a lab test for the particular strain.
Treatment is typically efficient within a couple of weeks, however it’s possible to experience the condition again even if you have been dealt with for it in the past.
Prevention
Chlamydial conjunctivitis is typically not extreme and is treatable in adults and babies when it is caught early. Nevertheless, neglected chlamydial conjunctivitis can cause severe vision issues, including blindness.
Protected sex and correct health are vital in preventing chlamydial conjunctivitis. Pregnant women who have chlamydia must get treatment before giving birth to prevent spreading out the infection to the newborn baby.
In general, it is necessary to practice appropriate hygiene to prevent infections, be they mild or severe.
Eye and vision health ought to likewise be taken care of effectively with yearly eye exams — and do not think twice to schedule an eye exam for any other concerns.
Takeaway
Chlamydial infections are frequently related to the genital areas as the contagious bacteria is generally passed from a single person to another during unprotected sex. Chlamydia trachomatis can also impact the eyes if the bacteria come in contact with them. The signs resemble pink eye.
Speak with your doctor if you believe you’re experiencing a chlamydial eye infection. Treatment is usually efficient in a reasonably short time frame.
