Work

A cross-sectional survey of ocular problems after COVID-19 infection among healthcare workers at a teaching hospital

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: A BSTRACT Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV2). The impact of the pandemic is becoming more apparent now on various tissues and body organs. Limited knowledge is present about the characteristics, duration, and long-term sequelae of ocular problems post-COVID-19 infection. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and analyze the ocular problems occurring in healthcare workers after COVID-19 infection. Material and Method: This was a cross-sectional survey study conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna. The participants were healthcare workers who were exposed to COVID-19 infection ≥6 months back. A questionnaire was prepared. Responses were evaluated and analyzed. Patient consent and institutional committee permission were taken as per norms. Result: A total of 210 healthcare workers who were infected with COVID-19 >6 months back responded with complete answers. The maximum number of respondents was between the ages of 31 and 60 (73.3%). The pre-covid ocular problems were present in 25% of the participants, especially in those having chronic diseases (such as diabetes, hypertension, or both). Post-ocular problems were faced by 60% of the participants, which was significant ( P < 0.01). Dry eye, itching, and foreign body sensations were present in 60% of those facing ocular problems ( P < 0.01). Ocular surface manifestations were more common. Conclusion: A knowledge, understanding, and awareness about ocular problems and their long-term sequelae in post-COVID-19-infected patients will help in early diagnosis and better management of such patients.

Source: Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care

DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_785_24

Authors: Santosh Kumar Mishra, Naveen Kumar, Arti Kumari, Anant Kumar Verma

Institutions: Patna Medical College and Hospital, Nalanda Medical College and Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Retinal and Optic Conditions

Subfield: Ophthalmology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $450