Frequently asked questions about coronavirus in ophthalmology
Is there a higher risk of contracting coronavirus after laser eye surgery or lens surgery?
No, the recently performed laser vision correction or refractive lens replacement do not make us more susceptible to coronavirus infection. It is important to remember that we must wash our hands before each application of the drops recommended by the ophthalmologist.
Under no circumstances should you reach for your face with hands that have not been carefully washed or disinfected beforehand, as recommended for the pandemic.
Although it has not been proven that contact with the mucous membrane of the eye can cause coronavirus to enter our body, reaching into the eye (even more so – a freshly operated eye) can lead to infection with any other pathogen.
Can coronavirus be contracted through tears?
We have no evidence that coronavirus can enter our body directly through the mucous membrane of the eye. Theoretically, it is possible, so we should take all possible precautions.
I recently underwent laser surgery or lens replacement and contracted coronavirus. Will the infection affect the healing of the eye?
No, coronavirus does not affect eye healing. It causes respiratory illness and causes symptoms similar to those of the common cold or flu; in severe cases it causes pneumonia, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
Is conjunctivitis one of the symptoms of coronavirus infection?
Reports from China and around the world show that about 1-3% of people with Covid-19 also had conjunctivitis. However, concern should be raised not by conjunctival inflammation alone, but when other Covid-19 symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, fatigue, cough or shortness of breath, appear alongside it.
The date for laser vision correction/refractive lens replacement is pandemic in my case. Will the surgery take place?
Due to the epidemiological situation in Poland, taking into account our collective health and a quick return to everyday life, we have decided to cancel and suspend all consultations carried out at the office – including scheduled surgical procedures.
We are still at your service (make an appointment or consult with us), but please contact us by e-mail (info@swisslaser.pl) or phone (+48 221 201 690).
What hygiene rules to apply in daily life?
- It is imperative to wash your hands as recommended by specialists. This will help avoid not only the transmission of coronavirus, but also all other pathogens that could lead to unnecessary complications in patients after eye/eye surgery.
- Avoid, if possible, touching doorknobs, doors, etc. If you cannot wash your hands immediately after touching them, use alcohol-based disinfectant gels.
- Remember to disinfect your smartphone as you put it to your ear while talking. You can also use the speaker option and not bring the smartphone near your face at all.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or use a bent elbow. Immediately dispose of disposable tissues in a closed waste container.
- Avoid close physical contact – follow the rules of social isolation.
Is it better to wear contact lenses or glasses during a coronavirus pandemic?
Experts suggest that during the coronavirus pandemic, it is better to abandon the use of contact lenses and return to the use of glasses. Wearing lenses involves touching your face with your hands, as well as – and perhaps most importantly – maneuvering directly against the mucous membrane of the eye, which can significantly affect the transmission of various pathogens to it just from your hands.
Ophthalmologists believe that wearing glasses helps keep hands away from the face, which is recommended by epidemiologists around the world.
Doctors also stress that wearing glasses can provide a purely physical barrier against the coronavirus, which can become airborne after an infected person sneezes or coughs.
