A viral infection, particularly flu, and the coronavirus of a new type, can enter the human body through the mucous membrane of the eye. How to protect your eyes during an outbreak of coronavirus, said the head of the Department of therapeutic ophthalmology IRTC eye microsurgery named after academician Fedorov, doctor of medical Sciences, specialist in infectious eye diseases Dmitry Maichuk.
In the program “About the main thing” on TV channel “Russia 1”, the expert said that all viruses are hazardous to the eyes.
“Viral diseases of the eye – a terrible thing, they are difficult to treat. All the viruses in varying degrees, affect eyes: adenoviruses leave changes on conjuctive, enteroviruses cause scarring of the conjunctiva, so that the eyelid is becoming more and more open. They all cause dry eye syndrome. They all lead to blurred vision, explained Maichuk. We were scared as COVID-19 will to reveal himself.”
However, according to the ophthalmologist, from all scientific sources that now exist, it follows that even if the tear of the patient coronavirus or antibodies to the virus of the eye are not affected. But this does not mean that infection through the mucous membranes of the eyes can not.
“Bacteria and viruses enter on the mucosa, some part of them is absorbed. Then the big problem is that with the current tears it all goes into the nasolacrimal duct, which then connects to the nose. And nose everything, one hundred percent absorbed,” – said Maichuk.
Therefore, as noted by the ophthalmologist, it is better during the epidemic not to use contact lenses. The fact that between the lens and the cornea of the eye formed a favorable environment for viruses, bacteria and fungus. And the ability to put on an eye infection when wearing lenses doctor called huge. It is better to use points: they provide a degree of protection because people who wear them are less likely to touch your eyes throughout the day.
On the question of whetherread red eyes symptom COVID-19, the doctor said that this is not a specific symptom of this disease.
“all the people who have been sick with acute respiratory disease who have fever, toxicologically component forces to expand the blood vessels of the conjunctiva. This is true for any total physical destruction,” said the ophthalmologist.
Those who found the redness of the eye, the doctor recommended taking an antihistamine. You can also use drops of antiseptic, such as boric acid. It is part of a multicomponent interferons. However, such drugs should appoint a specialist, stressed Maichuk.
Earlier, head of the ophthalmology clinic of the Pirogov center, Professor Rinat Faizrakhmanov recommended to refuse from contact lenses in the period of epidemic of coronavirus. He stressed that the wearing of the lenses increases the risk of infection, and if you completely abandon them is impossible, it is necessary to strengthen hygiene measures.
