Are Sore, Itchy Eyes a Sign of COVID-19?

If you've been exposed to COVID-19, the coronavirus, you could be experiencing a range of symptoms, including fever, chills, sore throat, dry cough and muscle aches. Now, studies have found that itchy, irritated eyes can also be a sign of COVID-19 infection.

Eye Discomfort and COVID-19

There are many reasons why people experience eye discomfort: Dry winter air, allergies and dry eye syndrome can all cause your eyes to feel itchy, gritty and uncomfortable. Now, a new study suggests that COVID-19 may also cause these symptoms.

A January 2022 retrospective study published in Medical Principles and Practice analyzed data from patients who were clinically diagnosed with conjunctivitis – also called “pink eye” – and who were later referred for PCR testing for COVID-19.

Symptoms that led to the diagnosis of conjunctivitis included eyelid pain or discomfort, a foreign body sensation in the eyes, itchiness, excessive watering, and crusting or flaking at the corners of the eyes.

Of the 672 cases sent for PCR testing after diagnosis of conjunctivitis, 121 (about 18%) were found to be positive for COVID-19. The researchers concluded that conjunctivitis could actually be the very first noticeable sign of COVID-19, since symptoms of conjunctivitis were often reported by COVID-positive patients several days before they noticed other symptoms.

What To Do If Your Eyes Itch

If your eyes are itchy or sore, do your best not to touch or scratch them, as this can spread COVID-19 or another infection to the surfaces you touch. Wash your hands thoroughly and use doctor-prescribed eye drops when possible to alleviate symptoms.

Contact us at Grove City Vision Center in Grove City if you are experiencing sore, irritated eyes, but follow local medical advice or contact your healthcare professional immediately if you suspect you have COVID-19.

If you are COVID-19 negative, your symptoms may be due to an eye infection, dry eye or another cause. Your eye doctor can prescribe eye drops, medications or discuss a range of in-office treatments to relieve your symptoms.