Mucous membranes are all similar, but not identical, in structure.
What they share is a porous structure that allows microorganisms like bacteria and viruses easier access into the body.
Even today, eye diseases triggered by STIs are a majorcause of blindnessin some countries.
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In the United States, it is relatively uncommon for STIs to cause eye disease in adults.
However, they are far more often seen in infants.
Types
Not all STIs can become eye diseases.
The four most common types include three bacterial STIs and one viral STI.
Chlamydia
Chlamydiainfections of the eye are sometimes referred to as trachoma.
Less severe infections can lead to reduced vision.
Most of the eye problems brought on by chlamydia are due to conjunctivalinflammationand scarring.
Early treatment can prevent the more severe manifestations of chlamydial eye infections.
The treatment generally involvesantibioticstaken either by mouth or applied directly to the eyes.
Eye disease triggered by the bacteriaNeisseria gonorrhoeaeis also treated with antibiotics, usually delivered by injection.
If not treated appropriately, gonorrhea eye disease can lead to vision loss or blindness.
It is resulting from a bacterium known asTreponema pallidum.
These were mostly seen inmen who have sex with men,around half of whom wereHIV-positive.
Eye infections sparked by syphilis can cause redness, blurry vision, and blindness.
Vision problems tend to be worse during active outbreaks but can also persist when no lesions are present.
Some research suggests that herpes eye diseases are more likely to occur in people who are HIV-positive or havediabetes.
Although eye diseases aren’t particularly common with herpes, they can become serious if left untreated.
The antiviral drug Zovirax (acyclovir) is typically the first-line course of treatment.
It can also reduce the risk of herpes recurrence if used prophylactically.
This is largely due to healthcare providers using preventative measures to prevent transmission at the time of birth.
To avoid transmission in adults (including autoinoculation), avoid rubbing your eyes during or after sex.
If you must do so, make certain towash your handsbefore touching your face.
Eye infections aren’t fun, but they’re usually quite treatable with the proper medication.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.How sexual activity can affect your vision.
2018;30(4):348352. doi:10.1016/j.joco.2018.03.002
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Hygiene-related diseases.
2019;7(10):429. doi:10.3390/microorganisms7100429
