Overlooked Symptoms Associated with COVID-19
COVID-19 can enter the body through our eyes, potentially leading to various symptoms, according to expert insights.
As cases of the strain popularly referred to as American Covid increase globally, awareness of its lesser-known eye-related symptoms remains limited.
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, many have become familiar with the primary symptoms of COVID-19, including a persistent cough, high fever, sore throat, headaches, and loss of taste or smell. However, as the virus continues to evolve and new variants emerge, the range of symptoms may also shift.
While many of the classic symptoms persist, some less obvious signs are now gaining attention, particularly those affecting the eyes. Symptoms such as irritation, redness, and conjunctivitis may occur alongside the more commonly recognized indicators of infection.
This particular variant, scientifically labeled as XFG, has been known since last year but is now becoming predominant in various countries.
In an interview with the Mirror, pharmacist Noel Wicks, an adviser to GoldenEye, emphasized that the COVID-19 virus can enter through the eyes, potentially resulting in symptoms. He pointed out that research indicates conjunctivitis, characterized by redness of the eyes, can affect individuals who test positive for COVID-19, with reported rates ranging from 2% to over 14%. Notably, this symptom may manifest even without other signs of the virus.
According to Wicks, “Conjunctivitis can indeed be the first and/or the only symptom of COVID.” A scientific review encompassing 20 studies with a total of 3,383 participants confirmed conjunctivitis as the most prevalent eye condition linked to COVID-19.
Wicks explained that when virus-containing droplets land on the eye surface, the virus can travel into the internal cavity of the eye and potentially reach the retina. He advised that early signs of conjunctivitis include a pinkish hue in the white of the eye, inflamed eyelids, gritty itchy sensations, and white or yellow discharge. He cautioned that these symptoms should be addressed promptly.
Pharmacists can recommend appropriate treatments for irritated or sore eyes, such as those containing propamidine isethionate, an antiseptic that helps control bacterial growth and prevent infections.
