The presentation of COVID-19 can vary significantly among individuals, ranging from mild to severe symptoms affecting various bodily systems. A common concern that arises for many is whether eye-related issues, specifically watery eyes, can be an indication of the infection. Understanding all potential signs of COVID-19, including those affecting the eyes, is important for identifying the illness.
Watery Eyes as a COVID-19 Symptom
Watery eyes can indeed be a symptom experienced by individuals infected with COVID-19. While not as frequently reported as respiratory symptoms like fever or cough, eye symptoms, including watery eyes, have been noted in a percentage of patients. Studies indicate that ocular manifestations occur in approximately 2% to 32% of COVID-19 cases.
Among the various eye-related issues, conjunctivitis is the most common, and watery eyes are a frequent component of conjunctivitis. Although watery eyes can be a presenting symptom, they are rarely the sole indicator of COVID-19 and typically appear alongside other more characteristic signs of the infection.
How COVID-19 Affects the Eyes
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, can impact the eyes through several mechanisms, leading to symptoms like watery eyes. The virus gains entry into human cells primarily by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. These ACE2 receptors are present in ocular tissues, including the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the inside of the eyelids and covering the white part of the eyeball, and the cornea. This presence allows for direct viral infection of eye cells.
When the virus infects these tissues, it can trigger an inflammatory response, which manifests as conjunctivitis. Symptoms of this inflammation include redness, irritation, and excessive tearing or watery discharge. Other ocular symptoms reported in COVID-19 patients include dry eyes, a foreign body sensation, light sensitivity (photophobia), and blurred vision.
Distinguishing COVID-Related Eye Symptoms
Differentiating COVID-19-related eye symptoms from those caused by other common conditions can be challenging. Allergic conjunctivitis often presents with itchy, watery eyes, and can be accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose, but does not involve a fever. Viral conjunctivitis, including that caused by COVID-19, usually involves watery discharge and can start in one eye before spreading to the other, unlike bacterial infections which often produce thicker discharge.
COVID-19 eye symptoms are frequently accompanied by other systemic signs such as fever, cough, fatigue, or loss of smell and taste. If watery eyes are the only symptom, it is less likely to be COVID-19, though newer variants like Arcturus have been associated with conjunctivitis as a more prominent feature. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if eye symptoms are severe, include significant pain, sudden vision changes, or if they worsen or persist. An eye doctor can perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate care.