Posted on 27th January 2014
You may not have heard of it as it is unusual in the UK and a short burst of antibiotics usually sees it off. However in developing nations numbers with the disease are alarming.
Like bacterial conjunctivitis, the disease is most common in children between one and five years old. If you have children and spotted the symptoms of conjunctivitis you probably popped in to see me, the GP or your local chemist, to get a course of eye drops and that was that – trachoma is just as simple to treat. However the medical care in the areas worst affected is just not there and untreated trachoma infections cause the inside surface of the eyelid to become rough and then scar. The scarring causes the eyelashes to start turning inwards where they scratch the cornea with every blink making it eventually turn opaque causing blindness after years of pain.
WHO launched an initiative called “SAFE” which stands for Surgery for trichiasis (inturned eyelashes), Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness and Environmental improvement in the 1990’s. Since its invention it has administered over 50 million antibiotic treatments however, clearly so much more needs to be done. Hopefully raising awareness of the disease in developed nations will help raise vital funds in a bid to stem the spread of trachoma. Find out more about this condition here
18th January 2021
We are saddened to inform you that at the end of last year we lost our founding partner, Murray McGrath, who many of you will have been treated by over the years. Cameron Optometry started out as W M ...
Read more07th January 2021
This page will have our latest information on the care we can provide during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can also find information on our Facebook page. LATEST UPDATE Thursday, 7 January, 2021 We are...
Read more16th December 2020
We are delighted to let you know that we have a new optometrist joining the practice in January. Alexandra Young is incredibly highly regarded and we are excited to welcome her to the team. In addi...
Read more16th November 2020
Vision plays a vital role in driving, and as a driver it’s important that you ensure you have the best vision possible. To mark Road Safety Week, taking place from 16-22 November, The College of Opt...
Read more