Here are some of the potential complications of untreated chlamydia:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): In women, chlamydia can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to scarring and damage to the reproductive organs. This can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Epididymitis: In men, chlamydia can cause inflammation of the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm from the testicle), which can cause pain, swelling, and in rare cases, can lead to infertility.
- Reactive arthritis: In some cases, chlamydia can cause a type of arthritis that affects the joints, eyes, and urethra.
- Increased risk of HIV: Having chlamydia can increase the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
- Spread to others: If left untreated, chlamydia can be spread to sexual partners and can cause infection in them.
Chlamydia in eye
A chlamydia infection is most common in the genital area, but it can occur in less common places like the anus, throat, and the eyes. It can occur in the eyes through direct or indirect contact with the bacteria. For example, the infection can go from the genitals to the eye if you touch your eye without washing your hands.
If you have a chlamydia eye infection, also known as chlamydial conjunctivitis, the following symptoms may occur:
- redness
- swelling
- itching
- irritation
- mucus or discharge
- sensitivity to light (photophobia)
If left untreated, chlamydia in the eye can lead to blindness. But it’s easily treated, and early treatment will help cure the infection and prevent complications. Chlamydia in the eye may be confused with more common eye infections.
It’s worth noting that, many people who are infected with chlamydia do not have any symptoms, so it is important to get tested and treated if you suspect you have been exposed to the infection. Additionally, it’s crucial to avoid having sex until the treatment is finished and the infection is completely cleared.