A common question that we receive from our patients is regarding COVID-19 and any effects it might have on the your eyes and your vision. The studies and data on this issue have started to be published and peer reviewed. So, we thought we'd make a blog post to give an update on some of the information we have been digesting on this topic. The referenced studies will be hyperlinked at the bottom of this post for your personal perusal, should you be inclinded to read such things.
A recent study published by The Chinese University of Hong Kong’s Faculty of Medicine shows a marked increase in the prevalance of dry eye disease in individuals who have recovered from COVID 19. In addition, a statistically significant worsening of objective measurements such as tear break up time was documented post COVID-19 exposure. This is to be expected, Dry Eye Disease is inflamatory in nature, so anything that increases inflamation in the body will typically exacerbate signs and symptoms of dry eye. It is also worth noting that if you are having symptoms of dry eye (burn, sting, fluctuating visual acuity, achey tired eye, etc) this is something very treatable that we address weekly with our patients. Link to study referenced below.
Additionally, to reference a recent study titled, "Herpetic Keratitis and Corneal Endothelitis Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Series" published in January 05, 2022 (second link below). This report "emphasizes the necessity of evaluating HSV reactivation as a potential complication of COVID-19 vaccination." In other words, vaccination to COVID-19 will increase the prevelence of a reactivation of dormant viral infections like Herpes Simplex Virus. HSV if reactivated in the eyes, and not treated urgently, can create permanent corneal scarring and vision loss.
So, we'll take this opportunity to stress the importance of yearly eye exams with us here at Highland Optometrics. Additonally, we always accept same day walk in appointments for all patients with an acute red eye. The sooner we can identify the problem and treat it, the better off the patient always is. If you live in the San Bernardino California area including Highland and Redlands.... we can't wait to see you. Call to schedule your appointment with our eye doctors today.
https://www.med.cuhk.edu.hk/press-releases/cuhk-medicine-study-shows-a-higher-prevalence-of-dry-eye-disease-among-post-covid-19-patients
https://www.cureus.com/articles/81975-herpetic-keratitis-and-corneal-endothelitis-following-covid-19-vaccination-a-case-series
