COVID can enter through eyes too, prevent eye infections during pandemic

While people are strictly following the lockdown in support of the nation well being, but would be sticking themselves to the digital screens, which may have serious effect on their vision in the long run. While any condition should not be confirmed on your own without proper testing by experts, certain symptoms like drying eyes or watery eyes, redness in the eyes, unable to see far distance, peripheral vision with rings, difficulty in focusing on objects may be considered as symptoms of gradual deterioration of vision and should follow the below mentioned remedies.

Proper eye care should be become a priority during this crisis situation to help protect from other infections like conjunctivitis, stye, dry eyes and corneal ulcers which can cause permanent blindness.

“Amid the COVID pandemic, eyes are also highly susceptible to various types of infections, and hence social distancing and prioritizing the personal hygiene quotient can assist in preventing any type of infections (corona virus do not have proven incidences of spread through eyes, yet precautions are necessary). Washing hands and avoiding eye contacts will help in preventing any infectious disease. Avoid rubbing eyes as our fingers are mostly covered by germs that can easily transmit the germs. Always wash your eyes with cold water whenever returning from outside. Avoid rubbing them which can lead to dry eyes and may aggravate itching.” Said Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev, President, AIOS

Please clean them (eye wears) frequently to avoid fungal growth. Never share your glasses with anyone and properly clean them before or after the usage. It is advised to wear spectacles instead of contact lens in this situation. Though  there is no proven evidence, but spectacles may provide an extra layer of protection.

“With low immunity, elderly are highly susceptible to catch any infection early, it is advised for the elderly and patients with any chronic ailments especially, hypertension, and diabetes to maintain healthy eye hygiene. Diabetics are also advised to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels, as it may lead to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) which may cause vision problems permanently. A little extra care can prevent serious eye ailments, especially for the patients with diabetes.” Said Dr Namrata Sharma, General Secretary, AIOS.

Having a balanced diet is good for the overall health as well. Consuming the required nutrients (Daily nutrition Value DNV) through food is always best and include eye healthy foods as well.  In order to avoid any shortage of critical medications especially for patients of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or any other serious eye ailments, during this lockdown situation, it is advised to keep eye drops and other medications in stock, but do not go for panic buying and pie up stocks.