Eyes been feeling gritty, sore or dry since wearing a mask? Mask Induced Dry Eye is a thing!
Mask Induced Dry Eye is caused by air blowing upwards from the mask into your eyes. This causes increased evaporation of the tear film, and when continuous for hours or day, can cause irritation and inflammation to the ocular surface.
As masks are now mandatory when out and about, we thought we’d give you a few pointers on how to avoid it.
- A mask with a nose wire, fitted around your nose will prevent air escaping and being directed towards your eyes.
- If able to, take breaks from wearing your mask every few hours.
- Use lubricating eye drops. Best is a drop such as Novatears, Systane Complete or Systane Balance which has a lipid component to it. The lipid/oil will act as a barrier seal to reduce tear evaporation.
- Remember to blink. Staring at a computer or device screen decreases out blink rate. Blinking helps spread our tear film out to lubricate the eyes.
If symptoms persist or worsen remember to seek professional advice. During Level 3 we have an optometrist on call for phone consultation. We can supply drops through contactless delivery or pick up from the practice. Please contact us for more details on this.
We are here to help!
Martina Fellmann
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