FACE MASKS LINKED TO DRY EYE SYMPTOMS

April 26, 2021
A woman is wearing a medical mask on her face.

The increased use of face masks as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic has caused a higher rate of discomfort due to dry eyes. A recent study showed that as many as 27% of mask-wearers found that their dry eye symptoms were worse while wearing their mask.

The cause of increased dry eye related to wearing a face mask is thought to be due to exhaled air directed towards the eyes from a loose-fitting mask. Forced air from heat ducts and air conditioning is a known factor contributing to dry eye symptoms, and the upwardly-moving air from underneath a face mask likely provides a similar effect.

It’s important to remember the protective benefits of wearing a face mask in reducing viral transmission. Dry eye discomfort should not discourage people from wearing their masks, and the following tips can help reduce these symptoms:

· Ensure a tight seal between the top of your mask and your face – certain masks can be adjusted with a metal band across the nose

· Visit your eye doctor to properly diagnose and treat your dry eye condition – dry eye disease is a complex issue with multiple factors. At MVO we have a special interest in dry eye disease and have many new technologies to help you.

Source: https://www.reviewofoptometry.com/article/maskwearing-may-exacerbate-dry-eye-symptoms

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