Why does eye pain occur with COVID-19?
Jan 19, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
COVID-19 usually refers to infection with the novel coronavirus. Eye pain or discomfort during a COVID-19 infection may be caused by fever, conjunctivitis, or inflammatory infections. In such cases, it is important to promptly identify the underlying cause and select appropriate treatment accordingly. After being infected with the novel coronavirus, patients experience the release of inflammatory factors in the body, triggering internal inflammation and manifesting as fever.
COVID-19 usually refers to infection with the novel coronavirus. Eye pain during eye movement after contracting the novel coronavirus may be caused by fever, conjunctivitis, or inflammatory infections. In such cases, it is important to promptly identify the underlying cause and choose appropriate treatment accordingly.
1. Fever
After being infected with the novel coronavirus, patients may experience internal inflammation triggered by factors released in the body, leading to symptoms such as fever. Elevated body temperature can increase water evaporation, causing dry eyes, which may result in pain during eye movement. Active cooling measures are necessary, including physical methods such as wiping with lukewarm water, taking a warm bath, or alcohol wipes. Medications for reducing fever should be used when body temperature exceeds 38.5°C.
2. Conjunctivitis
If the virus invades the mucous membranes of the eyes during novel coronavirus infection, it may trigger ocular inflammation such as conjunctivitis, causing pain during eye movement, sometimes accompanied by dryness and itching. In such cases, medications like acyclovir eye drops or ganciclovir ophthalmic ointment may be used as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.
3. Infection and Inflammation
If poor hand hygiene occurs during treatment, vigorously rubbing the eyes with hands may introduce dust and bacteria into the eyes, leading to infection and inflammation. Excessive pressure may also impair local blood circulation, ultimately causing pain during eye movement. This condition can be managed with medications such as erythromycin eye ointment, recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel, or fluorometholone eye drops.
