Onchocerciasis with eye disease Save

Onchocerciasis with Eye Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a parasitic disease caused by the worm Onchocerca volvulus. The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected blackflies that breed in fast-flowing rivers and streams. Onchocerciasis is endemic in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, as well as in Yemen and some parts of Latin America.

One of the most devastating effects of onchocerciasis is its impact on the eyes. When the larvae of the worm migrate to the eyes, they can cause severe inflammation and damage to the cornea, retina, and optic nerve. Over time, this can lead to blindness.

Causes of Onchocerciasis with Eye Disease

The cause of onchocerciasis with eye disease is the presence of the Onchocerca volvulus parasite in the body. The larvae of the worm are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blackflies. The larvae then migrate to the skin, where they can cause intense itching, rashes, and nodules under the skin. If the larvae migrate to the eyes, they can cause severe inflammation and damage to the ocular tissue.

Symptoms of Onchocerciasis with Eye Disease

1. Itchy skin
2. Rashes
3. Nodules under the skin
4. Blurred vision
5. Eye pain
6. Redness and tearing of the eyes
7. Loss of peripheral vision
8. Complete blindness in severe cases

Symptoms of onchocerciasis with eye disease usually appear 6-12 months after infection. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the degree of inflammation and damage to the ocular tissue. In severe cases, the disease can cause complete blindness.

Treatment of Onchocerciasis with Eye Disease

The treatment of onchocerciasis with eye disease involves the use of antiparasitic drugs, such as ivermectin and doxycycline. These drugs can kill the larvae of the worm and prevent further damage to the ocular tissue. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the cornea or retina.

Prevention of onchocerciasis with eye disease involves the use of insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent blackflies from biting, as well as the administration of antiparasitic drugs to entire communities at risk. Improved sanitation and environmental management can also help