Mask management: Dry eyes and misty glasses
College of Optometrists issues advice as part of National Eye Health Week
College of Optometrists issues advice as part of National Eye Health Week
Are you struggling with your spectacles while wearing a face mask? Do your glasses mist up, or do your eyes feel dry? To mark National Eye Health Week (21-27 September), The College of Optometrists has issued advice on how you can wear a mask, maintain healthy eyes and see clearly.
As we get used to wearing masks to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, there has been an increase in people reporting eye discomfort while using face coverings. Optometrists in the UK refer to this as Mask Eye, or more technically ‘Face Mask-associated Ocular Irritation’.
The College of Optometrists advises that if you are affected by Mask Eye it is important that you continue to use a face covering or mask to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Below are some simple steps you can take to minimise eye discomfort: (or watch the video here)
Daniel Hardiman-McCartney FCOptom, Clinical Adviser at the College of Optometrists explains; “As you breathe out, air is directed out of the top of your mask and is blown over the surface of your eye. This may result in your tears becoming disrupted and evaporating more quickly which can cause discomfort and a gritty feeling where your eyes may become watery and look red or sore. We know from our own research* that 22 percent of people noticed their vision deteriorate during lockdown, so we are urging these people and anyone who is having issues with their eyes to contact their local optometrist. All practices will be following government guidance and optometrists wearing PPE, to ensure that your visit is safe.”
Many mask-wearers have issues with glasses misting or fogging up when using a face mask. Daniel explains; “Glasses get misty or foggy when warm air flows out of the top of your mask when you breathe out. The warm air flows over the cooler spectacle lenses causing condensation to form on the lens surface, resulting in misty vision. The moist air may also cause your glasses to slip around your nose making them less comfortable.”
There are some simple steps you can take, to help reduce the misting or fogging: (watch the video here)
If you have any concerns about your vision, book an appointment with your local optometrist, you can find a directory of College members on our patient website: www.lookafteryoureyes.org.
The College has created a series of patient-focused videos related to COVID-19 and eye care:
ENDS
Notes to Editors