COVID-19 emerged as a global health challenge, impacting populations worldwide with varying degrees of severity. The illness is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which has demonstrated a wide range of manifestations in infected individuals. This variability in symptoms and outcomes makes understanding the disease complex.
Ocular Symptoms of COVID-19
Sore eyes can be a symptom of COVID-19, although it is less common than other respiratory or systemic manifestations. The term “COVID eyes” encompasses various eye-related symptoms linked to the virus, including pain, grittiness, redness, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. These symptoms often stem from conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, which involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids.
Conjunctivitis associated with COVID-19 can present with red, inflamed eyes, tearing, and a sensation of having something lodged in the eye. While it often affects both eyes, it may start in one and then spread. Studies indicate that approximately 1 in 10 people with COVID-19 experience eye symptoms, with conjunctivitis being the most frequently reported.
Some individuals might even experience eye symptoms as the initial or sole indicator of their COVID-19 infection. These ocular symptoms last for a few days up to two weeks. Beyond conjunctivitis, the virus can also cause dry eyes, itching, eye discharge, blurry vision, or corneal nerve damage, which can lead to eye pain.
Recognizing Other COVID-19 Symptoms and Next Steps
The symptoms of COVID-19 are diverse and can range from mild to severe, appearing 2 to 14 days after exposure. While sore eyes can occur, more common indicators include a high temperature or chills, a new continuous cough, and a loss or change to the sense of smell or taste. Other symptoms involve shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, and a blocked or runny nose. Digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can also occur.
If you experience sore eyes or any other symptoms consistent with COVID-19, take action to protect yourself and others. Staying home and avoiding contact with other people is recommended, especially if you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough for usual activities. Testing for COVID-19 is important to confirm an infection; if symptoms are present, testing should occur promptly.
Over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms, but if symptoms worsen or are severe, seeking medical advice is necessary. Individuals who test positive should isolate for at least five full days from the onset of symptoms or the positive test date to prevent further spread. If symptoms improve after five days, precautions like masking around others indoors for an additional five days are advisable.