Chlamydial Conjunctivitis
Chlamydial Inclusion Conjunctivitis is an Eye Infection Caused by an STD
Chlamydial Inclusion Conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva of the eye that is caused by the sexually transmitted disease called Chlamydia. Chlamydia, specifically Chlamydia trachomatis, is a human pathogen that is one of three bacterial species in the Chlamydial family. Chlamydia is most commonly seen in:
- People who have more than one sexual partner
- People who don't use condoms
- People with a history of STD's
- People under age 25
How is Chlamydia Spread?
Chlamydia is spread from person-to-person during unprotected sex. It can be passed to the eye by a hand or other body part with the infected bacteria. Chlamydia cannot be spread by kissing, toilet seats, door knobs, swimming pools, sharing clothes or eating utensils.
Signs & Symptoms of Chlamydial Inclusion Conjunctivitis
The symptoms and signs of Chlamydia Conjunctivitis include a unilateral (only one eye) red eye, irritation, mucous discharge, swollen eyelids and crusting of the eyelids. Symptoms can start anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks after getting infected.
Treatment for Chlamydial Inclusion Conjunctivitis
If you experience these symptoms or you have been infected by Chlamydia, you should see your Master Eye Associates optometrist as soon as possible for treatment. The infection is treated primarily with oral antibiotics such as azithromycin in very high dosage. The patient and their sexual partners should be evaluated by their primary care physicians for other sexually transmitted diseases and should be treated to prevent re-infection.