OPTICAL PRISM | SPECIAL FEATURE
Dry eye on rise amid pandemic
By Denis Langlois
The widespread use of face
masks during the global COVID-19 pandemic has led to a notable rise in reports of dry , uncomfortable eyes , according to the Centre for Ocular Research & Education at the University of Waterloo .
As a result , the organization is advising eye care professionals on how to recognize mask-associated dry eye and is encouraging ECPs to provide advice to their patients on how to alleviate symptoms , such as by using lubricating eye drops .
“ Responsibly wearing a mask , even when having to contend with eye dryness , is a critical part of overcoming the global pandemic . The good news is that we understand MADE and can address it .”
CORE clinical scientist Karen Walsh said the increase in mask-associated dry eye is a concern .
“ Patients who experience uncomfortable eyes when wearing their mask may be more likely to touch their face or rub their eyes or perhaps end up discouraged from wearing a mask at all ,” she says .
“ Eye care professionals are extremely well-placed to be able to identify the presence of mask-related dryness issues and can help patients to improve their eye comfort through a
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