Important public health measures such as the wearing of face masks have been widely implemented during the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, including larger community mandatory face mask use. During this time span, an increased number of patients with dry eye symptoms have been observed among habitual mask users who do not have a history of ocular surface pathology. Individuals have described feeling air blowing upward from the mask into their eyes, which is likely to enhance the evaporation of their tear film, resulting in ocular discomfort.
While wearing a face mask is critical for combating the COVID-19 epidemic, it is critical to understand the potential consequences for eye health.
Tang YF, Chong EWT. Face Mask-Associated Recurrent Corneal Erosion Syndrome and Corneal Infection. Eye Contact Lens. 2021 Sep 3. doi: 10.1097/ICL.0000000000000837. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34483243.