Can wearing spectacles stop you catching COVID? And other questions answered
Can wearing glasses prevent you catching COVID?
Scientists in Northern India have suggested that spectacle wearers have a two to three times lower risk of contracting COVID-19 than those who do not wear glasses. It is thought that those who wear spectacles are more protected against COVID particles entering the eyes if exposed to a cough or sneeze from an infected person (though not a replacement for a face shield or goggles). Also those who wear spectacles are thought less likely to touch their eyes unknowingly throughout the day.
How do you stop spectacles fogging up whilst wearing a mask?
We have tried every anti-fog spray going and found one that really does work. So much so that I’ve tested it by putting my spectacles in the fridge and then over a boiling kettle- No steaming up! Sprays can be purchased in practice or by clicking here.
Other than using a spray like this, making sure you restrict air flow from the top of your mask either with a mask fitted with a metal strip or using tape at the top of the mask can help a bit.
Is it safe to have an eye examination at present?
Whilst some routine check ups can be delayed for short times, it is important that anyone who has any worries or concerns with their eyes, has them checked as soon as possible. Delaying can cause any treatments required to be less effective. If you are in any doubt please contact us for advise.
All our staff have had both their vaccines and test themselves twice a week to make sure they and you are protected. All clients and visitors are required to fill in a COVID screening before attending too. Entry is by appointment and door bell only to stop anyone wandering in.
In our practice we have gone above and beyond government guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. We have reduced the number of clients in the practice by spacing appointments out by the hour. We aim to have only 1-2 patients in the practice at any time. There is a stringent cleaning regime and all spectacles are sanitised using UVC sterilisation. Our air-conditioning is fitted with fresh air exchange system and doors are regularly opened.
We are also conducting a lot of telephone and facetime consultations for those who are shielding or we do not feel it is necessary to see.
Luckily for us we have one of the most technologically advanced practices in the UK and this technology has helped to keep our clients safe whilst offering the very best in eye care. For instance spending a long time staring closely into your eyes is not a good idea at the moment and really doesn’t give us the best results anyway. Instead, we use one of only a handful of scanning machines to 4D OCT scan patients’ eyes to allow us to see far more than the older test could. Using this we are able to detect conditions such as macula degeneration, diabetic eye disease and glaucoma up to 8 years sooner than normal.
We have invested in new dry eye assessment technology which allows us to scan you tearfilm, gland and ocular surface to allow better diagnosis and more accurate treatment whilst avoiding more invasive tests.
Can COVID effect your eyes?
Whilst it is possible to contract viral conjunctivitis from COVID -19 the incidence is low. There is ongoing research to see if there are any long term effects on eyesight but some people have experienced short term blurring and eye fatigue.
Can I wear contact lenses during the pandemic?
Yes, if you usually do but maintain stringent hygiene and avoid touching your eyes throughout the day. If you contract COVID ~(or any other illness) your eyes may become more sensitive and it is advisable to break from weraing lenses if this is the case.
