What are the potential harms of wearing masks for a long time?

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Guo Xiheng

Introduction

Potential harms of long-term mask wearing commonly include hypoxia, increased risk of facial skin allergies, reduced immunity, skin problems on the face, and increased risk of pneumonia. In addition, it may lead to excessive strain on the heart and lungs. It is recommended to reduce the duration of mask use when environmental conditions are good, in order to enhance respiratory resistance. If discomfort occurs after prolonged mask wearing, prompt medical consultation and treatment are necessary.

Generally, common health risks associated with long-term mask wearing include hypoxia, facial skin allergies, reduced immunity, facial skin problems, and increased risk of pneumonia.

1. Hypoxia

Masks help block pathogens, but they can also restrict airflow, making breathing more difficult and potentially leading to oxygen deficiency. This may result in symptoms such as dizziness and palpitations.

2. Facial Skin Allergies

Prolonged coverage of the face reduces the skin's protective barrier and increases sensitivity to airborne substances, making allergic reactions more likely. This can cause symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching of the skin.

3. Reduced Immunity

Long-term mask use limits the respiratory tract’s exposure to cold air and other microorganisms, which may weaken its natural defenses. As a result, individuals may become more susceptible to respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis when not wearing masks.

4. Facial Skin Problems

Extended mask wearing exerts pressure on localized areas of the skin. Additionally, moisture from exhaled breath creates a warm, humid environment that can block hair follicles and sebaceous gland ducts, potentially leading to skin conditions such as folliculitis or acne.

5. Increased Risk of Pneumonia

Prolonged mask use may affect lung tissue and increase the likelihood of developing pneumonia, presenting symptoms such as coughing and phlegm production.

In addition, long-term mask wearing may place excessive strain on the heart and lungs. It is recommended to reduce mask-wearing time in environments with good air quality and to strengthen respiratory resilience. If discomfort occurs after prolonged mask use, prompt medical consultation and treatment are advised.

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Can you wear a mask when you have a fever?

When having a fever, it is generally acceptable to wear a mask. Doing so not only helps prevent infection to some extent when going out, but also reduces the further spread of the disease. Wearing a mask during fever does not affect the progression of the illness. However, prolonged mask use is not recommended, as breathing rate is already increased during fever, and added respiratory resistance may lead to breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, even oxygen deficiency.

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Is wearing a mask beneficial for rhinitis?

Rhinitis is usually caused by external allergens irritating the nasal mucosa, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. Masks primarily serve a protective function. When people with rhinitis wear masks outdoors, they can effectively filter out allergens in the air such as haze, pollen, and dust mites, reducing irritation of the nasal mucosa and thereby alleviating congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa.