Redness Around the Eyes: Is It Related to Recent COVID-19 Diagnosis?

Q: Redness Around the Eyes: Is It Related to Recent COVID-19 Diagnosis?

Hello： There are several possible causes for redness around the eyes, one of which may be related to a positive rapid test result. <br>After confirmation, especially in the case of a viral infection, conjunctivitis may occur, leading to redness in the eyes. <br>However, since you

There is some redness around the eyes?

On Monday, I underwent dilation, and the doctor only mentioned that there were no significant issues, just some floaters.
He suggested that I should have an eye exam once a year.
He did not elaborate on the persistent flashes, which I assume indicates that they are harmless and not a cause for concern.
However, today is Wednesday, and I still notice some redness around my eyes.
There is no pain or discomfort.
Since I recently tested positive for COVID-19, I would like to ask if the redness in my eyes could be related to the diagnosis.
If so, does this condition typically resolve on its own? How long does it usually take?

Xiao Zhi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: There are several possible causes for redness around the eyes, one of which may be related to a positive rapid test result.
After confirmation, especially in the case of a viral infection, conjunctivitis may occur, leading to redness in the eyes.
However, since you did not mention any pain, itching, or discomfort, this may simply be a mild inflammatory response.

1.
Monitor the condition: If the redness around the eyes does not worsen and there are no other discomforting symptoms, this mild swelling typically resolves on its own.
It is advisable to rest more and avoid excessive eye strain.

2.
Maintain eye hygiene: Avoid rubbing your eyes with your hands, keep the eye area clean, and consider using preservative-free artificial tears to keep the eyes moist and reduce irritation.

3.
Avoid irritants: Try to avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and other environments that may irritate the eyes, and limit prolonged use of electronic devices.

4.
Impact of the positive test result: If the redness and swelling are due to conjunctivitis caused by the confirmed diagnosis, it usually improves gradually within one to two weeks.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to see an ophthalmologist for a professional evaluation.

5.
Be aware of other symptoms: If you experience blurred vision, pain, or increased discharge, you should seek immediate ophthalmic examination to rule out other potential issues.

In summary, your current situation should not be a cause for excessive concern, but it is important to keep monitoring.
If the redness does not improve in the coming days or if other discomforting symptoms arise, please consult an ophthalmologist promptly.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2024/06/19

More Info

Redness around the eyes can be concerning, especially after a recent COVID-19 diagnosis. While your eye doctor did not find any significant issues during your examination, the persistence of redness could potentially be linked to your recent illness.
COVID-19, like many viral infections, can lead to a variety of symptoms, including those affecting the eyes. One common ocular manifestation associated with viral infections is conjunctivitis, or "pink eye," which can cause redness, irritation, and discharge. In some cases, COVID-19 has been linked to conjunctivitis, although this is not universally experienced by all patients. The redness you are observing could be a mild form of conjunctivitis or another benign inflammatory response.

Given that you are not experiencing pain, discomfort, or other alarming symptoms, it is likely that the redness is not indicative of a serious condition. Many cases of mild conjunctivitis or eye irritation can resolve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks, especially if they are not accompanied by more severe symptoms.
Here are some recommendations to help manage the redness and promote healing:
1. Rest Your Eyes: Ensure you are giving your eyes adequate rest, especially if you have been using screens frequently. Overexertion can exacerbate redness and irritation.

2. Maintain Eye Hygiene: Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can introduce more irritants and bacteria. Keeping your hands clean and avoiding touching your face can help reduce the risk of further irritation.

3. Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, using preservative-free artificial tears can help keep them lubricated and comfortable.

4. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, dust, and other environmental irritants that could worsen your symptoms. If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses until the redness subsides.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the redness worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, vision changes, or discharge, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional.

6. Follow Up: Since you have a history of eye issues and recent COVID-19, it may be beneficial to schedule a follow-up appointment with your eye doctor if the redness persists beyond a week or two.

In conclusion, while the redness around your eyes could potentially be related to your recent COVID-19 diagnosis, it is likely to be a mild and self-limiting condition. With proper care and monitoring, you should expect improvement. However, do not hesitate to seek medical advice if your symptoms change or worsen. Your eye health is important, and staying proactive about any changes is key to maintaining it.

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