The novel coronavirus that is responsible for the pandemic causes the respiratory condition COVID-19. Fever, coughing, and breathing problems are some of the most typical symptoms of this illness. It can very infrequently lead to Conjunctivitis, an eye infection.
Should I be concerned about my watery, itchy eyes?
Examining your eyes is one of the simplest ways to distinguish between allergy and coronavirus symptoms. These are likely symptoms of allergies if they are red, runny, and irritating. Generally speaking, uncomfortable symptoms of a coronavirus do not result in watery, itchy eyes.
Fever is "another important distinction between symptoms of a coronavirus and seasonal allergies," says Dr. Huffman. Fever is not a symptom of allergies but is frequently present in coronavirus patients.
Symptoms
According to medical professionals, between 1% and 3% of COVID-19 patients will experience pinkeye (Conjunctivitis). It occurs when the virus infects a tissue called the conjunctiva, which covers the white of your eye or the inside of your eyelids. The following are signs of dry eyes:
- Red Swollen Itchy Skin
- It's not necessarily a guarantee that Conjunctivitis means you have COVID-19. Numerous viruses, bacteria, chemicals, and allergies that could irritate your eyes are the usual offenders.
- With over-the-counter medications, many types of Conjunctivitis disappear in approximately 1-2 weeks.
The symptoms of red eyes
Red eyes are not among the most typical COVID-19 symptoms. However, some infected people have had eye-related problems. One such condition is Conjunctivitis, also known as "pink eye." An inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin, transparent layer of tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye, is known as Conjunctivitis. It might make your eyes red, itchy, burning, and discharge.
Red eyes in COVID-19 patients were evident.
In several research and case reports, red eyes or Conjunctivitis have been seen in COVID-19 patients. In a 2020 study that was published in JAMA Ophthalmology, for instance, it was discovered that 12 (31.6%) of 38 COVID-19 patients in Hubei Province, China, who had their eyes checked for symptoms had ocular indicators such as conjunctival congestion (redness) and chemosis (conjunctival edema). It's important to remember that these visual symptoms frequently co-occur with more typical COVID-19 symptoms.
Conjunctivitis was more prevalent in patients with severe COVID-19 than in individuals with moderate cases, according to a subsequent study published in the journal Ophthalmology in 2021. According to the study's findings, Conjunctivitis is not a solitary sign of the virus, which also showed that patients with other COVID-19 symptoms had a higher likelihood of developing it.
Ocular involvement mechanism
According to researchers, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can enter the eyes through respiratory droplets or contact contaminated hands and touch the eyes. Once within the eyes, the virus can induce swelling, resulting in redness and other conjunctivitis-related symptoms.
It is important to note that COVID-19 patients can experience red eyes or Conjunctivitis. However, these symptoms are not the main or most frequent ones. Wearing masks, washing your hands frequently, and keeping a physical distance from infected people are still the best preventative measures. The virus is primarily transferred through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Allergic Conjunctivitis versus red eyes
Since allergies are one of many possible causes of Conjunctivitis, it might be difficult to distinguish red eyes as a COVID-19 sign. In cases of allergic Conjunctivitis, exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander causes the eyes to become red, itchy, and watery. It might be difficult to differentiate between viral and allergic Conjunctivitis based purely on eye symptoms because the symptoms of both conditions can be identical.
As a result, it's crucial to think about your general health and any additional symptoms you might be experiencing if you have red eyes. Regardless of your eye symptoms, getting tested for the virus is imperative if you have respiratory symptoms or have recently been near someone diagnosed with COVID-19.
How you can guard your eyes
Be sure to wash your hands frequently and, whenever possible, remain at home. If you go outside, use a mask and keep a 6-foot distance from other people. Moreover, it might be a good idea to:
- Contact lenses: No evidence suggests that wearing contacts increases your risk of COVID-19 compared to wearing glasses. However, it would help if you kept up your safe hygiene routines when wearing and taking care of them. Before you put your hands in or take them out, wash them.
- Put on spectacles. Your eyeglass lenses could aid in shielding any respiratory droplets from your eyes. Try sunglasses if you don't wear glasses. Additionally, wear safety glasses or goggles if caring for a sick person.
- Keep eye medicine on hand. If you need to refill glaucoma drops or other necessary prescriptions in advance, check with your insurance provider. Possible options include a three-month supply. For assistance, consult your physician or pharmacist.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes. The habit might be challenging to break. Drops of moisture may reduce itching. Both before and after you do it, wash your hands for 20 seconds. Use a tissue instead of your fingers if you must contact your eyes.
Conclusion
Even though some COVID-19 patients have experienced red eyes, more specifically Conjunctivitis, they are not a typical or distinguishing sign of the virus. The most common signs and symptoms of COVID-19, mostly a respiratory infection, include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Red eyes can have several reasons, including allergies. Therefore, they shouldn't be taken as the only sign of COVID-19.
It is advised to get tested for the virus if you have red eyes and other COVID-19 symptoms or have recently been in close contact with a confirmed case. However, maintaining adherence to public health recommendations, such as mask use, hand hygiene, and social seclusion, continues to be the greatest method to prevent COVID-19. As our understanding of COVID-19 grows, it is essential to consult trustworthy sources of information to make well-informed decisions about testing and treatment.
However, consult your doctor to find out what, if anything, has to be done if you also have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath. Get instructions for your arrival and find out if it's safe to attend a hospital or medical facility by calling ahead of time. Schedule an appointment with Casey Optical Too best optometrists in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
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