Does long-term wearing of masks have any impact on the lungs?
Apr 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Wearing regular masks for a long time generally does not affect the lungs. However, prolonged use of medical masks such as N95s may have an impact on lung function. Masks serve to filter the air, and wearing them daily can also block ultraviolet rays from sunlight, protecting facial skin. Regular masks typically have good breathability and provide little to no sealing effect.
Wearing regular masks for a long time generally does not affect the lungs. However, prolonged use of medical masks such as N95s may have an impact on lung function.
Masks help filter the air and, during daily use, can also block ultraviolet rays from sunlight, protecting facial skin. Regular masks typically have good breathability and do not form a tight seal, allowing normal breathing without significant impact on the lungs. In contrast, N95 or surgical medical masks provide a tighter seal but have poorer breathability. Wearing these for extended periods may cause exhaled moisture to condense and accumulate inside the mask, making breathing more difficult and potentially leading to dizziness due to oxygen deprivation. Moreover, prolonged mask use may reduce nasal mucosa exposure to external stimuli, decreasing its adaptability and increasing sensitivity. When the nasal mucosa is suddenly exposed to outside air, the risk of allergic reactions rises, which may impair pulmonary ventilation and increase the burden on the lungs. Therefore, it is not recommended to wear such masks for extended durations.
It is advisable to limit the duration of mask-wearing, and masks should be replaced promptly if they become contaminated.
