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A groundbreaking study conducted by a team of Indian-origin researchers has shed light on the emerging connection between COVID-19 infection and a variety of eye-related symptoms, including dryness, redness, and itchiness.
While COVID-19 has primarily been understood as a respiratory illness, the research published in Cureus: Journal of Medical Science reveals that the ocular system is also vulnerable to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with increasing reports of eye-related complications globally. The study brings to attention a growing body of evidence suggesting that the virus can affect the eyes, which has often been overlooked.
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” was identified as the most prevalent ocular symptom. According to the findings, approximately one in ten COVID-19 patients experience symptoms associated with the eyes. Beyond conjunctivitis, the research team observed more severe complications including episcleritis, an inflammatory condition affecting the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye, and ophthalmoparesis, which involves weakness or paralysis of the muscles responsible for eye movement.
The study also highlighted a rare but concerning condition: Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO), a serious eye disease caused by a blockage of the artery supplying the retina. Some COVID-19 patients were found to suffer from CRAO, which can lead to permanent vision loss. Additionally, cases of cranial nerve palsies, which involve delayed eye movement and potential vision loss, were reported in some individuals infected with the virus.
In a significant revelation, the study suggested that ocular symptoms might serve as an early indication of COVID-19 infection in some patients, urging healthcare providers to consider eye-related signs as a potential warning. This could be particularly useful in diagnosing individuals who may not yet present other common symptoms of the virus.
The research, which is based on an extensive review of 233 studies published between 2020 and 2024, also explored the underlying mechanism behind the virus’s effect on the eyes. The study revealed that ACE2 receptors, which are present in the eyes, act as entry points for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This mechanism explains how the virus can invade ocular cells, leading to the development of eye-related symptoms in COVID-19 patients.
This new understanding of COVID-19’s impact on the ocular system could open doors to more effective diagnostics and treatment for individuals experiencing eye symptoms as part of their infection.
As the research continues to grow, these findings underscore the need for further exploration into the broader impact of the virus on various body systems, beyond the respiratory complications traditionally associated with COVID-19.
Source: Daijiworld
