How To Overcome Mask Related Dry Eyes

Wearing a mask is essential to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, it may also lead to dry eye symptoms. Why does this occur, and what can you do? Air from breathing out is channeled up to the top of the face mask, and over the eye’s surface. 

Consequently, the movement of air over the eye causes the tears to evaporate, leaving the surface of the eye dry. It may cause the eyes to feel gritty, itchy, watery, and look red, which can lead to serious irritation. 

So, to help you overcome mask-related dry eyes, Doctors Eyecare Wetaskiwin has put together a list of simple yet effective solutions. By following these tips, we are sure that you will avoid getting this problem or reduce its effect.

1. Make sure your mask fits tightly around your nose.
The best masks have a wire that bends to fit snugly around your nose. While this type may sometimes cost a little more, it’s worth the investment.

2. Lubricating eye drops may help alleviate the feeling of dry eyes. 
Consult your optometrist for a recommendation, as there are many varieties of eye drops available on the market, and certain brands are more effective than others.

3. Limit time in air-conditioned spaces when possible.
As the temperature in an air conditioned room cools down, the humidity decreases and causes your tears to evaporate. Take breaks from the air conditioning.

4. Take regular breaks from digital devices. 
It’s unimaginable to be away from our mobiles and laptops for long, especially if we used them for work, but it’s recommended to take frequent breaks from your device to give your eyes a rest and allow your eyes to re-hydrate.

We hope these tips helped you. If you are suffering from dry eyes or any other eye-related issue, contact Doctors Eyecare Wetaskiwin today.

Our eye care clinic offers a full range of eye health services to patients of all ages, from children to seniors. It includes routine eye exams/vision tests, eye disease diagnosis/management, immediate attention for eye emergencies, complete eye health management, eye surgery consultations and co-management with ophthalmologists.

We also offer eyewear prescriptions, eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses for our patients.

We serve patients across Wetaskiwin, Millet, Maskwacis, Pigeon Lake, and the surrounding areas.

For more information about our eye care services, get in touch with us by clicking here.