Red eyes are a noticeable symptom with various underlying causes. While many factors can lead to eye redness, a common question has emerged regarding its connection to COVID-19. Red eyes can occur with COVID-19, but they are not the only possible cause. This article explores the link between COVID-19 and red eyes, alongside other common reasons for eye redness, and offers guidance on care and when to seek medical advice.
Red Eyes and COVID-19
COVID-19 can manifest with various symptoms, including red eyes, often presenting as conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane lining the inside of the eyelid and covering the white part of the eyeball. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, can directly infect this tissue.
When infected, the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, causing symptoms such as redness, watery discharge, and sometimes itching or a gritty sensation. While conjunctivitis can be a symptom of COVID-19, it is not among the most common manifestations of the illness. Studies suggest that conjunctivitis occurs in a minority of COVID-19 cases. In some instances, conjunctivitis has been observed as an initial or even the sole symptom of COVID-19, appearing before other more typical respiratory symptoms.
Common Causes of Red Eyes
Red eyes can stem from numerous conditions beyond COVID-19. Allergies are a frequent culprit, often causing itchy, watery eyes along with redness, sometimes accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose. Environmental irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals can also lead to immediate eye redness and discomfort.
Bacterial or viral infections are common causes of conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with a thicker, pus-like discharge and crusty eyelids, while other viral forms often involve watery discharge and can be associated with a cold or flu. Dry eyes, where the eyes do not produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly, can result in a burning or gritty sensation, blurry vision, and persistent redness. Eye strain from prolonged focus, minor injuries, or even a broken blood vessel on the eye’s surface (subconjunctival hemorrhage) can also cause eyes to appear red.
Caring for Red Eyes
For general eye redness not accompanied by severe symptoms, several home care strategies can provide comfort. Applying cool compresses over closed eyes can soothe irritation and reduce redness by constricting blood vessels. Warm compresses might be suitable for conditions like a stye or dry eyes, but cool compresses are generally recommended for inflammation.
Good eye hygiene is important, including avoiding rubbing the eyes, which can worsen irritation or introduce more contaminants. Individuals who wear contact lenses should remove them until the redness resolves and ensure proper cleaning and replacement practices to prevent further irritation or infection. Limiting exposure to known irritants such as smoke, dust, or allergens can also prevent or alleviate eye redness.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many cases of red eyes resolve on their own or with home care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Seek immediate medical attention if eye redness is accompanied by severe pain, sudden changes in vision, or extreme sensitivity to light. These symptoms could point to more serious underlying conditions.
Persistent discharge, especially if thick or discolored, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve after a few days of home care, warrants a doctor’s visit. If only one eye is affected, or if you experience a severe headache, fever, nausea, or vomiting along with red eyes, consult a healthcare provider. If COVID-19 exposure is suspected or other COVID-19 symptoms are present alongside red eyes, testing is recommended to confirm the cause.