Face masks can lead to dry eye problems

Experts from the Centre for Ocular Research and Education (Core) released the results of a review in late August that concluded eye dryness and irritation from mask wear may become a problem for a large percentage of the population.

Mask-associated dry eye (Made) became an issue as national governments and health services began recommending mask wear in public to combat the coronavirus pandemic, and Core recommended that eye care professionals (ECP) were aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition.

The utility of masks in slowing transmission of the virus has been well documented, and the rise in cases of Made is a downside that eye care professionals will have to address while wearing them is still recommended, said Dr Lyndon Jones, director of Core. ‘Asking patients about their mask-wearing experiences and providing a few helpful tips takes little time and can make a substantial difference,’ he added.