Trachoma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - Mayo Clinic

According to the Mayo Clinic, trachoma is an eye infection that is the primary cause of blindness throughout the world. It is most prevalent in underdeveloped countries. The trachoma bacteria is contracted through direct contact with an affected individual. Tracoma progresses quite slowly and may be contracted in childhood, but symptoms may not occur until adulthood. Untreated trachoma can result in blindness. However, if treated early the bacteria can be prevented from causing permanent eye damage.

Itching

• One of the first signs of trachoma is itchy eyes.

Drainage

• Along with the itching, affected individuals will have eye drainage consisting of either pus or mucus.

Light Sensitiveness

• After the disease progresses for a while, affected individuals will have photophobia or sensitivity to light.

Blurry Vision

• After further progression of the disease, affected individuals will have blurry vision.

Pain

• As the disease progresses, affected individuals will experience eye pain.