Should You Switch to Eyeglasses for the Meantime?

Should You Switch to Eyeglasses for the Meantime

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has recently released a statement regarding eye safety tips concerning the coronavirus behind Covid-19. Among its recommendations is wearing eyeglasses and skipping contact lenses in light of the current pandemic. 

Rare but Early Symptom 

Researchers made the recommendation in line with initial studies that point to conjunctivitis as an early, albeit rare, symptom of Covid-19 infection. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is the infection of the conjunctiva, which is the transparent membrane that covers the eyeballs’ white part. 

When the small blood vessels in the transparent membrane become inflamed, typically by a bacteria or virus, these become more visible. In turn, the whites of the eyes appear either bright pink or reddish, thus, the name. The inflammation can also cause grittiness, itchiness, discharge in one or both eyes, even tearing.  

According to initial studies, conjunctivitis is an early symptom of Covid-19 infections but rare. Only a small number of patients – estimates range from 1% to 3% – show conjunctivitis signs before other symptoms appear. 

Common Transmission Mode 

The coronavirus that causes Covid-19 can also spread through the eyes in several ways. These include infected eye fluids and droplets that enter through the eyes. In addition, these vectors are the standard transmission modes for other viruses that cause the common cold and flu.  

Scientists and doctors studying the coronavirus discover that ocular secretions, or fluids, are a likely means of transmissions. However, patients with eye symptoms can’t determine whether the Covid-19 infection was transmitted or started in the eyes. After all, other transmission methods are possible, including face touching and inhalation of droplets.  

So, should you wear eyeglasses and give your contact lenses a rest at a time when the coronavirus seems to transmit through the eyes? Yes, perhaps you should, but you must discuss it with your optometrist at Pearle Vision

You may continue wearing your contact lenses because it’s your choice. However, you can still practice safety precautions to reduce your risks of contracting the coronavirus. That includes more frequent hand washing and safer handling of your lenses.

Benefits of switching to eyeglasses

But if you can switch to eyeglasses, you should because of its numerous benefits at this time. First, eyeglasses serve as a protective barrier against your hands. Mainly when you habit touching your eyes when wearing contact lenses, you will be less likely to feel your eyes with the eyeglasses between your fingers and eyes.  

Second, eyeglasses add an extra layer of protection for your eyes. These serve as barriers between your eyes and the infected respiratory droplets floating in the air, unseen. While eyeglasses aren’t 100% protective, unlike most medical-grade safety goggles, these are better than nothing unless you’re in the healthcare sector.  

It would be best if you still were mindful of your hands touching your face since infected droplets can still enter your eyes via eyeglasses’ sides. Wash your hands with soap and water for about 20 seconds as often as possible, and use a tissue to remove your glasses. It would be best to disinfect your eyeglasses regularly with alcohol and tissue.