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Refractive error changes and associated asthenopia observed after COVID-19 infection: Case reports from two
Monika Thakur1, Thanuja Panicker2, PremNandhini Satgunam1,3
1Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|June 16, 2023
Summary
Post-COVID-19 recovery may cause refractive errors, specifically a hyperopic shift, leading to eye strain. This suggests refractive changes should be considered a potential complication, especially with accompanying headaches.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- While COVID-19 is associated with diverse ocular issues, refractive errors have not been previously documented.
- Asthenopic symptoms, such as eye strain and headaches, are common post-viral complaints.
Observation:
- This case report details ethnically diverse patients experiencing asthenopic symptoms after COVID-19 recovery.
- Patients exhibited a hyperopic shift in their refractive error following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Findings:
- The observed hyperopic shift post-COVID-19 may stem from the ciliary body muscle's impaired ability to maintain accommodation.
- This suggests a potential link between COVID-19 and induced refractive changes, even if minor.
Implications:
- Refractive errors, particularly hyperopic shifts, should be considered a potential post-COVID-19 complication.
- Dynamic retinoscopy and cycloplegic refraction are recommended for diagnosing and managing these refractive changes.
- Early identification of these refractive errors is crucial for patient comfort and visual health post-infection.
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