It’s hard to believe that Covid-19 has already been around for a couple years now. Even though many may not believe this, it still exists! As stated by Health Canada, COVID-19 will very unlikely ever be eradicated.
Let’s now talk about how this relates to our eyes!
As a result of the pandemic, many people began experiencing drastic changes in their vision, hearing, smell, taste, energy, etc. Infections, however, affect everyone differently. In some cases, respiratory problems can be mild or severe, and in others, there are no symptoms at all. It is estimated that approximately one in ten people develop eye symptoms as a result of the Coronavirus, including redness, itching, or discharge. The most common eye problems caused by Covid – are conjunctivitis (pink eye) and dry eye.
Despite the fact that doctors are still learning how Covid affects the eyes specifically, there is no doubt that some people with Covid experience inflammation throughout their bodies – inflammation can cause blood clots and these clots can travel through the body and enter the veins, arteries, and blood vessels of the eye, which is extremely dangerous.
Symptoms of an eye infection:
- Blurred vision,
- Eye pain, burning or stinging,
- Yellow, green or bloody eye discharge,
- Eyes “stuck” shut upon waking,
- Red eyes,
- Watery eyes,
- Flaking of eyelids,
- Swollen eyelids,
- Itching or burning sensation,
- Swollen eyelid(s),
- Sensitivity to light.
These are some common symptoms. Any changes in your normal day-to-day routine should be discussed with your local optometrist. A thorough eye exam will reveal what’s going on and how it can be treated.
How to prevent an eye infection:
As with common colds, eye infections can occur to anyone. As you go about your daily activities, you may pick up bacteria and germs that can get into your eyes. Healthy eyes are maintained by maintaining good hygiene habits, such as washing your face and eyelids daily and using clean towels.
Tips:
- Don’t touch your face or eyes with dirty hands,
- Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer,
- Wash your face and eyelids daily,
- Use clean towels and tissues,
- Don’t share makeup, cosmetics, or brushes,
- Wash your bed sheets and pillowcases weekly,
- Practice good contact lens hygiene,
- Clean your glasses frames and lenses often,
- Replace objects that come into contact with an infected eye.
- Use eyelid hygiene products to remove bacteria and debris from the eyelids such as blephaclean and blephagel
What should you do if you’ve already contracted an eye infection?
After diagnosing an eye infection, your optometrist will proceed to treating the virus, bacteria, or fungi that is causing it. Treatment generally involves the use of antibiotics, antivirals, eye drops, gels or artificial tears, and warm/cold compresses.
To prevent infections from developing and spreading, it is important to practice preventative measures to maintain the health of your eyes. This is the reason why it’s important to regularly check your eyes and see your eye doctor to find what is most effective for you!
The Bottom Line
Eye care is crucial, whether dealing with COVID-19, pink eye, or a common eye infection. Make eye health a priority now for clear vision in the future!
For more information, concerns or inquiries or to book your next eye exam, get in touch with inFocus Vision Care. It all begins with you taking care of your eyes!
