Myth: Wearing a mask causes reduced intake of oxygen. Truth: Even before CO…

2020-08-29 00:29:02

Myth: Wearing a mask causes reduced intake of oxygen.

Truth: Even before COVID, healthcare providers have worn masks for long periods of time with no adverse health reactions. Ask any surgeon and he or she will tell you that they perform complex surgeries that require intense concentration and precise motor skills… often for many hours at a time… all while wearing a mask.

There is no risk of hypoxia (lower oxygen levels) for healthy adults or children. Carbon dioxide will freely diffuse through the mask as you breathe. Reminder: kids under age 2 should not wear a mask.

Masks can cause anxiety or claustrophobia, just as some people experience these conditions when putting on snorkeling gear, entering an elevator or undergoing an MRI. Try these tips to calm yourself:

1) take long, slow breaths to steady yourself.
2) remind yourself that despite how you’re feeling, your lungs are getting exactly what they need.
3) practice wearing your mask around your home.
4) limit talking and breathe through your nose to reduce the humidity level in your mask.

#MaskUpIdaho #SpreadKnowledgeSaveLives #TakeMeToEIRMC