Dry eyes syndrome is a common condition caused by wearing a mask
For over two years, wearing a mask before stepping out was a common feature of everyday lives. After a brief interval, the mask mandate has returned due to a rise in the COVID cases. It helps curb the spread of the virus and protect others from getting infected with it. It is indeed the best possible thing to do when it comes to limiting the spread of the virus, but it is not completely harmless. From the start of the pandemic, people have been complaining about rising dental problems caused due to excessive usage of masks and now another study has confirmed an increased risk of dry eye syndrome due to it.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which your tears are not able to provide enough lubrication for your eyes, making you feel uncomfortable. It may happen because your eyes are not producing adequate tears or they are producing poor quality tears that cannot lubricate the eyes. Prolonged dryness can lead to inflammation in the eyes and damage the eye's surface. The condition can make your eyes sting or burn. While it may happen due to several reasons, at present it is on the rise due to excessive use of the mask. As per research published in the journal Scientific Reports mask-wearing is associated with an increased risk of experiencing dry eye syndrome and the condition has been named as Mask-Associated Dry Eye.
What are the signs of dry eye syndrome?
The condition can affect both the eyes at one time and you may need to visit the doctor for proper treatment. Some common signs of dry eyes include:
Stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in the eyes
Sensitivity to light
Eye redness
Sensation of having something in the eyes
Watery eyes
Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Swelling of the eyelid
Who is at risk?
Everyone who wears a mask for a long time is at risk of developing this condition. But according to the report published in the Scientific Reports, the risk is higher among those wearing glasses and contact lenses. Besides, those working on the computer screen for a long time without break, spending time in the air conditioner and heated environment are also at risk. Even older adults may be troubled due to this condition. Smoking or drinking alcohol can also play a role.
Treatment
Another study also revealed that eye related problems can also bother those infected with severe COVID-19. If left untreated, dry eye can become a serious issue and can seriously damage the eyes. If you witness any kind of eye related problems do not overlook it. Get yourself treated as soon as possible. Here are a few things you may do for relief:
Avoid smoke, direct airflow, and wind
Drink a sufficient amount of water everyday
Use a humidifier to keep the air from drying
Use warm compresses on the eyes
Take a break from screens
Position your laptop below eye level
Use artificial tear regularly
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