Will the COVID-19 infection result in eye problems? Is it necessary to wear face shield on the way home during the Spring Festival travel rush?

On January 17, 6 experts from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University provided answers to FAQs about eye health in a press briefing in Guangzhou.

(Photo: GDToday)

Q: Has the center recently received any patients with eye symptoms after contracting COVID-19? What are the main diseases?

Some of the recent patients treated in the center had developed eye symptoms that may be connected to the COVID-19 infection, said Yu Minbin, a well-known expert who heads the Department of Glaucoma at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center.

External ocular inflammation, including eyelid edema, hyperaemia and tearing is the most typical symptom. Viral keratitis and intraocular inflammation are also found among patients, however, mostly mild and transient.

Q: Why may viral conjunctivitis and viral keratitis occur after theCOVID-19 infection?

According to Liang Lingyi, chief physician of the Department of Corneal & External Diseases, novel coronavirus enters the body mainly by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor.

It is possible for COVID-19 infected patients to develop viral keratitis because corneal epithelial cells also have ACE2 receptors. However, the data of patients with direct infection are still being collected, and more clear evidence for etiology is needed.

More patients developed herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis due to weakened immune systems which had been attacked by coronavirus.

The expert suggested that patients seek immediate medical assistance if experiencing eye redness, foreign body sensation, or vision loss after being infected with COVID-19.

Q: After being infected with coronavirus, some fail to stop shedding tears while others suffer dry eyes. Why do people have different symptoms?

Watery eyes may be brought on by acute dacryoadenitis or tear secretion induced by inflammation of conjunctiva or cornea. Most of these are transient mild symptoms, which can usually be relieved by getting more rest.

Dry eyes, on the other hand, may be caused by accelerated tear evaporation due to high fever. In the meantime, poor sleep can also lead to less tear production.

In addition, many individuals lie in bed with their eyes glued to screens and blink much less than required, which can also cause dry eyes.

Artificial tears can help to relieve dry eye symptoms. More rest, more water, and less screen time are all beneficial.

Q: Can we wear contact lenses and orthokeratology (OK) lenses after COVID-19 infection?

It’s not advised to wear contact lenses or OK lenses for vision correction when infected with COVID-19 or having family members with severe COVID-19 symptoms, according to Yang Xiao, chief physician of the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences.

During the recovery period, contact lenses or cosmetic contact lenses are not recommended for about 2 weeks. OK lenses can be worn under the guidance of a doctor about a week after COVID-19 recovery.

Q: Is it necessary to wear face shields or goggles since many people are traveling back to their hometowns in recent days?

There is little chance of catching coronavirus directly through eyes, according to Wu Kaili, director of the Department of Clinical Laboratory.

It is not recommended to wear face shields or goggles during the annual peak travel rush. Instead, wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining a one-meter social distance are suggested.

Q: What are the fundus diseases that need particular attention during the Spring Festival holiday?

Retinal artery occlusion (eye stroke), acute optic neuritis and retinal detachment are some of the most prevalent retinal illnesses that call for emergency care, according to Li Tao, chief physician of the Retina Department (Surgical). 

Recently, there has been an increasing number of patients presenting with acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) after COVID-19 infection. Patients should go to hospital promptly when experiencing acute vision loss, blurred vision, or visual field defect.

During the Spring Festival holiday, patients with diabetic retinopathy should pay extra attention to managing blood sugar levels, exercising, and getting enough rest.

Q: What to do for a fireworks eye injury?

The majority of patients admitted to the center in previous Spring Festival holidays were those who injured their eyes while playing with fireworks, said Lin Haotian, deputy director of Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center.

It should be noted that such injury is often a compound one of multiple parts, and it is not recommended to deal with it by yourself. Patients are encouraged to seek prompt medical attention as soon as possible once an injury occurs.

If you usually have eye discomfort, with relatively mild symptoms, you can also consult with an Internet hospital. Self-medication is not recommended.