Coronavirus in numbers: 149 UK deaths recorded
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Coronavirus enters into your body through an enzyme, known to scientists as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2- ACE2 for short. This enzyme can also be found in multiple parts of your body including the lungs, heart and even the membranes of your eyes. Because of this it is no wonder why patients have been experiencing eye symptoms after contracting Coronavirus.
A 2021 review in the Journal of Ophthalmic & Vision Research found that out of 8,200 people with Coronavirus 11 percent had symptoms affecting their eyes.
Even worse than this, out of the 932 patients who had eye symptoms, a whopping 83 percent of these experienced some form of pain associated with it.
Have you or someone you know experienced any of these symptoms?
Dry eyes
Out of those who developed eye symptoms, 16 percent found they had dry eyes. This occurs when your eye is not able to provide sufficient lubrication.
It can lead to itchiness, redness and blurry vision.
Redness
13.3 percent of people also experienced redness. This is mainly when the whites of your eyes become red.
It can be accompanied by a burning sensation or redness spreading to your eyelids.
Itching
A similar symptom to those who suffer with allergies or hay fever, 12.6 percent of people suffered with itchy eyes when they had Coronavirus.
An irritating symptom that is worsened when you itch or rub your eyes- daily cleaning with a cold clean washcloth is advised instead.
Eye pain
Although a fairly broad term, 9.6 percent of patients reported eye pain, which can differ from being severe to mild irritation.
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University found that, of the 83 Coronavirus-positive patients they tested 16 percent reported experiencing sore eyes.
Conjunctivitis has also been listed by both the NHS and World Health Organisation (WHO) as a less common symptom of Coronavirus.
Discharge
8.8 percent of people experienced discharge from either one or both eyes.
This tends to be either a white, yellow or green watery mucus and is another symptom of conjunctivitis.
Some experts believe that these symptoms are more common with newer variants of coronavirus, particularly the Alpha variant.
Other studies also found that light sensitivity, known as photophobia, is linked to Coronavirus.
Another study from Anglia Ruskin University found that 18 percent of patients tested, experienced photophobia.
If you suddenly experience eye pain of any kind, contact your local GP or local optician.
Alternative causes of eye pain, un-related to Coronavirus include: allergies, digital eye strain and uncorrected glasses prescriptions.
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