Can Wearing an N95/KN95 Mask Help Alleviate Allergy Symptoms?
Allergies can be a real nuisance, causing discomfort and interfering with daily activities. However, there are ways to manage allergy symptoms effectively. Recently, the use of masks has become increasingly prevalent for many reasons. But can wearing a mask also help alleviate allergy symptoms? In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential benefits of wearing a mask for allergy relief and discuss other strategies to alleviate allergy symptoms.
Types of Allergies and Their Symptoms
The most common allergies include tree and grass pollen (hay fever), dust, and animal fur. Allergies manifest differently in individuals, with symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, itchy skin, and swollen eyes, lips, mouth, or throat. In some extreme cases, anaphylaxis.
How N95/KN95 Masks Can Help to Alleviate Allergy Symptoms
N95 and KN95 masks act as barriers, blocking particles in the air, including allergens, pollution, and viruses, from entering your nose, mouth, and lungs. Well-fitting masks like our Individually Sealed KN95 Masks or our CA-N95 Made in Canada Masks can effectively prevent the inhalation of pollen and other allergens. This is because KN95/N95 masks prevent particles as small as 0.3 microns from being breathed, but most allergens range in size from 2.5 microns to 25 microns.
Scientific Evidence on How N95/KN95 Masks Mitigate Allergy Symptoms
A study conducted by the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Pamukkale University School of Medicine explored the effect of face mask usage on allergic rhinitis symptoms in patients with pollen allergy during the COVID-19 pandemic. In comparison to the pre-pandemic period, patients who utilized face masks had a significant reduction in both nasal and ocular symptoms, according to the study. Sneezing and nasal discharge showed the greatest improvement following mask use.
Additional Strategies for Allergy Relief
In addition to wearing masks, there are other strategies individuals can adopt to alleviate allergy symptoms. These include:
• Stay indoors when pollen count and smog levels are high.
• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent allergens from entering your home.
• Use air purifiers to filter out allergens.
• Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to remove pollen, mold, and dust trapped in carpets.
• Wash your hair, shower, and change your clothes after spending time outdoors to remove allergens.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Wearing a high-quality N95/KN95 mask has been proven to help alleviate allergy symptoms by acting as a barrier against allergens in the air. However, it's important to choose masks that provide a proper fit and filtration. Our wide variety of mask options and sizes, allows you to find the perfect mask for your needs! From our best selling Individually Sealed KN95 Masks to our popular CA-N95 Masks, you can trust our masks to help alleviate some of your allergy symptoms so you can go about your summer with ease!
Resources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34986997/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343
