Your Eyes and COVID-19

We are learning more and more about the novel coronavirus and the respiratory illness it causes, COVID-19. Fortunately, as we learn, our treatments are getting more effective and we are seeing a relative drop in the mortality rate. However, with the U.S. just setting a record this week for its 7-day average in positive test results at 67,789, things are looking very tough for the winter ahead. And now? The holidays are looming, people are heading further indoors and the risk of infection will only grow.

COVID-19 and Conjunctivitis

As we’ve been educated, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, a dry cough and issues with breathing. We’re ALL on the lookout for any of that! Yet there are several more, possible symptoms with this virus, along with the 1-3% chance of developing conjunctivitis (an infection of the eyes). I’ve written about conjunctivitis on this blog before, so here’s a deeper link beyond what I’m summarizing below.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis and Should You Be Alarmed?

Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye” as it’s commonly referred, occurs when a virus infects a tissue in your eye called conjunctiva. This tissue covers the white part of your eye, essentially the inside of your eyelids. You’ll notice the following symptoms in your eyes if you develop this: .

• Itchy

• Red (or pinkish)

• Swollen

Now, if you have these symptoms you may have conjunctivitis, yet this does not necessarily mean you are also suffering from COVID-19. This is especially true if you’re not experiencing any other classic COVID-19 symptoms. Indeed, conjunctivitis is more likely the result of other viruses, chemicals, bacteria and various allergens that may irritate your eyes, resulting in this condition. Further, many forms of this irritating (pun intended) infection resolve in 1-2 weeks with simple, over-the-counter treatments.

However, if you also have additional COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough and/or shortness of breath, contact your doctor as soon as possible to get advice on next steps. Definitely call before heading into a hospital or medical center so you can receive instructions on how to safely visit for a potential evaluation. Chances are you still probably don’t have COVID-19, as the majority of tests do indeed come back negative, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

COVID-19 Spreads Easily and Your Eyes Can Play a Role

As scientists have learned, the most common ways for the new coronavirus to spread is through droplets from a sneeze or cough. In many cases, these droplets enter through your mouth, nose or eyes. Of course, it’s also possible to become infected by touching a doorknob, countertop or other surface, which is why we keep sanitizing our hands so very much. That said, surfaces are not the primary way the virus spreads.

If you end up developing conjunctivitis from COVID-19, you will have infectious material in your eyes and can infect others through touching your eyes and then touching people or surfaces. Of course, if you wash or disinfect your hands after touching your eyes, infecting others can be prevented. Yet as a general rule, one should avoid touching their face, especially the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes. Fortunately, most of us have been following this habit of hand washing/sanitizing and avoiding face (and eye) touching since last spring. This just gets more and more important as we march into winter.

Beyond Pink Eye

There is now evidence that COVID-19 can cause other issues in the eyes beyond conjunctivitis. In a recent case a patient in China, who had recovered from the virus, developed an acute glaucoma attack after being cleared. Surgery done to treat the condition showed evidence of an active, COVID-19 infection in the eyes. It is not yet known if the patient contracted the coronavirus through the eyes originally, or if the infection simply spread there (or was new altogether). Read more about this developing story here in The Baltimore Sun.

And hey, I’m not out just to talk doom and gloom about COVID-19. Rather, this is a note about how pink eye (conjunctivitis) can be an indicator of the virus, especially when coupled with other, classic viral symptoms including (but not limited to) coughing, fever and shortness of breath. Further, this is just a reminder to be extra safe, avoid indoor gatherings where possible, socially distance, wash your hands frequently and don’t touch your face (as much as possible). Oh…and keep wearing your mask!

Getting out in nature is STILL the best option we have to avoid close contact with other people and get our needed exercise. Can’t say enough about the coast here. I took this shot just after a great, small wave session at Indian Beach. Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers

A hike after surfing took me here, heading down into an otherwise inaccessible beach (except at low tide!). Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers