A New Study Points to an Unexpected COVID Side Effect We Definitely Didn't See Coming
While COVID hit us hard over four years ago, its effects—and the disease itself—are still lingering. People are experiencing effects of COVID after the fact, such as excessive snot and even cardiac injury.
The symptoms aren’t always the first ones you would think of, either. A recent study recognized another possible side effect of COVID: myopia, or nearsightedness.
Related: Here’s What You Need to Know About the Long-Term Effects of COVID-19
Other than the obvious sign—faraway objects appearing blurry or fuzzy—nearsightedness symptoms include headaches, eye strain, having to hold books closer, a shortened attention span and tiredness when focusing.
This condition has long been common in children and teens, affecting five percent of preschoolers, nine percent of school-aged children and 30 percent of adolescents. But now, it's becoming more common than ever—and the COVID pandemic may have something to do with that.
Research on COVID and Eye Health
According to the 2024 study in the British Journal of Ophthalmology by Chinese researchers, those stats are (and will be) increasing. “It is anticipated that the global incidence of myopia will exceed 740 million cases by 2050,” the research noted.
But how does COVID fit into this? For starters, the surge happened during the “COVID years.” It's worth noting that COVID can affect the retina by leading to “cotton wool” spots, eye stroke, retinal vein occlusion and retinal hemorrhage.
Related: The Common Habit That Could Be Damaging Your Vision, According to Ophthalmologists
Additionally, many of us were in lockdown during that time, which could have played a role. “This is due to the decrease in outdoor activities and increase in screen time that may result from extended periods of staying indoors,” the researchers wrote. “However, evidence regarding these aspects remains underreported globally.”
What You Can Do
Can we do anything about this issue, or are we, well, screwed? FWIW, spending more time outdoors and taking breaks from work can prevent myopia in children. Other general tips for protecting your vision include getting dilated eye exams as needed, wearing sunglasses and eating eye-healthy foods, like those rich in vitamins C, E and A.
Related: Let’s See, How Much Does LASIK Cost? Plus, Is It Actually Worth It?
If you are nearsighted, the Mayo Clinic recommends getting prescription lenses and refractive surgery.
Otherwise, this may be another case of “we’ll have to see how things play out,” as many long-term effects of COVID are.
Up Next:
Related: This Subtle (and Painful) Symptom May Be From Long COVID
Sources
Myopia (Nearsightedness), Cleveland Clinic
Myopia (Nearsightedness) in Children & Teens, American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Ophthalmology
4 Ways COVID Leaves Its Mark on the Eye, American Academy of Ophthalmology
Help your child prevent myopia with two simple steps, Boston Children's Hospital
8 Things You Can Do Right Now to Protect Your Vision, National Eye Institute
Nearsightedness, Mayo Clinic
Solve the daily Crossword
