Some research indicates that in 1%-3% of COVID-19 cases, the infected person developed a case of Conjunctiva (Pink Eye). Practicing physical distancing, wearing masks, and washing hands is currently the best way to reduce your chances of catching COVID-19.
Conjunctivitis is a rare indicator of COVID-19 but it has been exhibited in patients who have tested positive with the Coronavirus. Since this is a novel virus, it is essential that if you have conjunctivitis (pink eye), that you take precautions to prevent the spread including following CDC guidelines. If you have conjunctivitis, please adhere to the below:
Conjunctiva is a source of infection that can spread through people’s tears. If you have COVID-19, rubbing your eye can get the virus on your fingers and potentially spread it to another person. Please take precautions to not spread to others.
American Academy of Ophthalmology guidelines recommend that only urgent eye issues and emergencies that can affect vision need to be treated during the pandemic. Regular eye exams will not be performed during the pandemic. If you have an eye emergency, please contact our Bloomfield Hills ophthalmology practice. If you need to schedule a telemedecine visit, please call (248) 221-1022.
Red eye, pink eye, and dry eye all sound similar, but each are unique conditions with different causes and treatments. In order to know how to treat the problem, you need to be diagnosed for which one you have.
Red eye occurs when blood vessels come to the surface and are irritated by allergens, dust, or other irritants. The change causes a reddish coloration in the eye as well as discomfort. In order to stop the problem, you need to remove the allergen that’s causing it. This could be something in your surroundings, like pollen or dander.
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a contagious eye infection. Symptoms include itchiness in the eyes, light sensitivity, discharge from the corner of the eye, watering, and burning sensations. The patient may also experience a runny nose and stuffiness. Avoid wearing contacts and eye makeup. Your ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or pills to fight the infection. This condition usually lasts for 4 to 7 days.
Dry eye is a condition that causes redness as well as itching and dryness in the eye. This can happen when the eyes aren’t making enough tears to stay hydrated. Patients may be advised to use artificial tears, which are a special type of eye drop designed for this condition.
If you are suffering from chronic or severe eye irritation, make an appointment with your Eye Michigan doctor. Only a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and solution that eases symptoms and helps your eyes heal.
