Cold, flu, COVID-19, and other illnesses can sometimes affect your eyes — and being sick can also change how you should handle contact lenses or routine eye care. Here are a few things to keep in mind when illness and eye health overlap.
Should I continue to wear contact lenses when I’m sick?
You can, as long as you properly wash your hands particularly before inserting and removing your contact lenses. If you regularly touch your face or are sick, it is recommended to wear your eyeglasses.
Can eyeglasses protect me from cold, flu or COVID viruses?
There is no scientific evidence that proves regular eyeglasses protect against COVID-19 or other viruses.
Can Pink Eye be related to a cold, flu or COVID-19?
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as Pink Eye, can sometimes occur along with viral illnesses. Symptoms may include redness, irritation, tearing or discharge. If you believe you have Pink Eye, particularly when it occurs with other symptoms of illness, contact your eyecare professional or primary healthcare provider for guidance.
Should I keep my routine eye exam if I’m sick?
If you are experiencing symptoms of a cold, flu, COVID-19 or another contagious illness, contact your eyecare professional before your appointment. They can advise whether you should keep your scheduled appointment or reschedule it until you are feeling better.
What is considered an eyecare emergency?
Seek prompt medical attention for symptoms or injuries such as:
- Sudden partial or complete loss of vision
- Sudden blurred or double vision
- New flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a shadow/“curtain” over your vision
- Severe eye pain, especially with redness or changes in vision
- A chemical burn or chemical exposure to the eye
- A penetrating injury, foreign object or significant blunt trauma to the eye
- Uncontrolled bleeding from or around the eye
- Sudden changes in pupil size, particularly with other symptoms
- Eye pain, redness or light sensitivity associated with contact lens wear
Where should I go if I have symptoms of an eye care emergency?
You should seek medical attention if you have an eyecare emergency. Contact your eye doctor or primary care physician for advice when possible. Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend that you be seen by an eyecare professional, urgent care center, or emergency room. If you cannot reach a medical professional and believe you are experiencing an eye emergency, seek prompt medical care.
Good hygiene can also help protect your eyes when you are sick. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, and always wash your hands before handling contact lenses.
Sources:
1. https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/public-health/wash-rinse-repeat-reminding-contact-lens-wearers-about-risky-hygiene
2. https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis/signs-symptoms/index.html
3. https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/floaters
4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000054.htm