I am sure you have noticed how uncomfortable the masks we all must wear are becoming. I get a little tired of smelling my own breath, making it worse at times I feel a little light-headed.
Have you noticed that you are starting to get a few more headaches? These headaches usually do not respond to Advil or Aleve. They will respond nicely to fresh air. The headache is caused by a condition called hypoxia. When your blood does not carry enough oxygen to your tissues the body can not meet it's metabolic demands. Early signs of hypoxia include anxiety, confusion, and restlessness. If hypoxia is not corrected, hypotension will develop. Some studies suggest that hypoxia may provoke migraine headache and aura symptoms in some patients.
Let's discuss the average low-grade type of headache that can occur while wearing a mask. Have you noticed it is a little harder to breathe when wearing a mask? You may actually be inhaling CO2. We breathe out mostly carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide produced is a waste product and needs to be removed. Yet here you may just be recycling the CO2 and this can cause headaches. The CO2 is brought back to the lungs and has to be reprocessed. This may be why it feels like you are working harder when wearing a mask.
The lack of O2 is a pretty big cause of headaches. Please be aware that confusion is a telltale sign of hypoxia. Look out for restlessness, confusion, lack of coordination, shortness of breath are just a few signs you may not be getting adequate O2.
Try and be aware of any changes like the ones mentioned. You will need to take breaks from wearing your mask. I don't see how anyone can argue the point of you needing O2. If you have asthma or COPD then you will need to be more vigilant with breaks from wearing your mask. If your headaches get worse when wearing a mask tell your employer that you need a break. Obviously take your break away from other people to help contain the spread of Covid-19.
Core Health Darien- Dr.Brian McKay
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