COVID-19 Potential Impact on Eye Health
In the ongoing battle against COVID-19, it's crucial to be aware of all potential symptoms, including those affecting the eyes. A recent study by CUHK Medicine has revealed that a significant number of post-COVID patients experience eye-related symptoms, particularly dry eye disease and conjunctivitis.
According to the study, about 20% of post-COVID patients experience at least one new symptom related to dry eye disease, such as blurred vision, itching, pain, burning sensation, tearing, discharge, or redness. This indicates a notable prevalence of eye-related symptoms persisting or emerging after acute COVID-19 infection.
Regarding conjunctivitis, it is documented as the most commonly reported ophthalmological manifestation during acute COVID-19 infection, though its exact prevalence is variable in the literature. While precise prevalence percentages for conjunctivitis alone were not detailed in the contemporary sources found, it is clear that this eye condition is a significant concern for COVID-19 patients.
Other eye complications reported in COVID-19 include posterior scleritis, uveitis, and retinal involvement, but these are less frequent compared to conjunctivitis and dry eye symptoms.
The American Optometric Association recommends taking several precautions to protect against SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Frequent hand washing and avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands are important protective measures. Additionally, wearing protective eyewear such as safety glasses can help protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection. For those who wear contact lenses, it is advisable to discontinue their use during symptoms of pink eye and to clean and disinfect lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions.
In children with COVID-19, approximately 23% may exhibit symptoms of conjunctivitis. For people with symptoms of pink eye, treatment with artificial tears and cold compresses is advised.
In summary, ocular symptoms like dry eye and conjunctivitis are relatively common in COVID-19 patients, particularly in the post-infection phase, with conjunctivitis being the primary acute-phase eye manifestation. It's essential to be vigilant and seek medical advice if experiencing any eye symptoms, especially when coupled with other signs of COVID-19 such as cough and fever.
References:
- CUHK Medicine found dry eye symptoms in ~21.5% of post-COVID patients [1].
- Conjunctivitis is the most commonly reported eye issue during acute COVID-19 infection [2].
- Other parts of the eye, such as the optic nerve, retina, pupil, and lacrimal gland, may also exhibit symptoms.
- SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, can potentially lead to infective conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye.
- Optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, may be associated with COVID-19.
- Cleaning eyeglasses regularly and considering using disposable contact lenses during the COVID-19 pandemic is recommended by the American Optometric Association.
- Cleaning and disinfecting areas that people share, such as light switches, doorknobs, and phones, can help prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
- Maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from people who are coughing or sneezing can help prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
[1] CUHK Medicine. (2021). Dry Eye Disease in Adults Recovered from COVID-19: A Prospective Study. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S246802492100065X
[2] CDC. (2020). Ophthalmological Manifestations Associated with COVID-19. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/clinical-guidance-resources/eye.html
- The study by CUHK Medicine revealed that about 20% of post-COVID patients experience at least one new symptom related to blindness, such as blurred vision, due to the development of dry eye disease.
- According to the CDC, conjunctivitis, a type of eye inflammation, is the most commonly reported ophthalmological manifestation during acute COVID-19 infection, albeit its prevalence percentages vary in literature.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, science emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to protect eyes during the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes regular hand washing and avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
