Optical Prism November 2020 | Page 28

OPTICAL PRISM | SPECIAL FEATURE
number of simple steps . This should enable people to be able to continue wearing masks when necessary , maintaining the comfort of their eyes throughout .”
A new CORE-developed infographic includes information on the causes of mask-associated dry eye and solutions .
They include using lubricating eye drops , which can help alleviate dry-feeling eyes . Patients should consult with their ECPs on their recommendations , the infographic says .
CORE says reports of mask-associated dry eye have been circulating since early summer , but a recent review has concluded that eye dryness and irritation from mask wear may become a problem for a large percentage of the population .
While health experts say face masks help to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus , they also significantly reduce the outward spread of exhaled air . When masks sit loosely against the face , it forces a stream of air over the surface of the eye , according to CORE , which , in turn , creates conditions that accelerate tear film evaporation . That leads to dry spots on the ocular surface and discomfort .
Mask-associated dry eye can worsen symptoms in patients with pre-existing dry eye disease and also affect the elderly who typically have poorer quality tear film as well as contact lens wearers and people who wear a mask while working extended hours in air-conditioned settings or while using digital screens .
Walsh says ECPs should be proactive in asking how their patients ’ eyes feel when they wear a mask and provide tips for alleviating symptoms of mask-associated dry eye , such as wearing a close-fitting mask , using lubricating drops and taking regular breaks from situations that can contribute to dry-feeling eyes , such as air conditioned environments and long periods of digital device use .
She says paying attention to wearing a well-fitting mask that limits the upward movement of air is the first step towards preventing mask-associated dry eye .
CAUSE
Mask Associated Dry Eye ( MADE )
Wearing masks is essential to helping reduce the spread of COVID-19 , but may lead to symptoms of dry eye . Why does this occur and what can you do ?
1 . Air from breathing out is channeled up , out the top of the face mask , and over the surface of the eye . 1
2 . Movement of air over the eye causes tears to evaporate , leaving the surface of the eye dry .
3 . Eyes may feel dry , gritty , irritated , itchy , watery an look red .
SOURCE : CORE Centre for Ocular Research & Education | University of Waterloo Faculty of Science , School of Optometry & Vision Science .
1 .
CovidEyeFacts . org . Moshirfar , M ., West , W . B . & Marx , D . P . Face Mask-Associated Ocular Irritation and Dryness . Ophthalmol Ther ( 2020 ). https :// doi . org / 10.1007 / s40123-020-00282-6
Dr . Lyndon Jones , director of CORE , is adamant , however , that bringing more attention to mask-associated dry eye should not be used to support anti-mask wearing sentiments .
“ 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 — an opportunity for ECPs to further communicate their knowledge and ongoing value to patients at a time when sound , scientific guidance is needed more than ever ,” he says . OP
SOLUTION
1 . Ensure your mask fits well , and consider taping the top edge of the mask for prolonged wear .
2 . Lubricating eye drops may help alleviate dry feeling eyes . Consult with your eye care professional for their recommendation .
3 . Limit time in air-conditioned environments where possible , and take regular breaks from digital devices .
26 OPTICAL PRISM | October 2020