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Trachoma
Trachoma is caused by infection with the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.
Trachoma is spread through direct contact with infected eye, nose, or throat secretions or by contact with contaminated objects, such as towels or clothes. Certain flies can also spread the bacteria.
Symptoms begin 5 to 12 days after being exposed to the bacteria. The condition begins slowly as inflammation of the tissue lining the eyelids (conjunctivitis, or "pink eye"), which if untreated may lead to scarring.
Symptoms may include:
- Cloudy cornea
- Discharge from the eye
- Swelling of lymph nodes just in front of the ears
- Swollen eyelids
- Turned-in eyelashes
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