Can masks cause breathing problems – Dr. Sindhura Koganti

• Aug 19
• Preventive Health Check-Ups

Can face masks cause respiratory problems? ~ Explanation given by the doctor

After the spread of corona in Tamil Nadu started to increase again, a decree was issued that it is mandatory to wear face mask in public places and those who do not wear it will be fined Rs.500. In a public interest case filed by lawyer Ramamurthy in the Madras High Court against this order, he had stated that "wearing a face mask cannot control the corona virus. On the contrary, face masks can cause breathing problems." He pointed out that the fine for those who do not wear face mask is also wrong and asked to cancel this ordinance.

The judges who heard the case dismissed the petition by imposing a fine of Rs. 10,000 on the petitioner saying that he had filed the case without any relevant documents.

We asked Chennai-based pulmonologist Sindura whether face masks can cause breathing problems... 

"Wearing a mask does not cause respiratory problems. Rather, wearing a mask is very safe for those who have respiratory problems. N 95 mask is very safe. It is called N 95 because it filters 95 percent of the air. Surgical masks have two types, 3 layers and 1 layer. That's right, cloth masks too. Well, both don't filter the air and frankly prevent the spread of germs through spitting. 

People with lung problems, people with lung related problems like ILD (Interstitial lung disease), COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) have difficulty in breathing. People are prone to this problem due to various reasons including smoking and air pollution. When they wear a face mask, they feel as if their oxygen supply is reduced and suffer from difficulty.

People with lung problems should wear masks as the effect of corona is severe. No need to put it indoors. Can be worn only when going to public places. Anyone in the household who has symptoms of corona should wear a face mask. It's like suffocating to breathe wearing a mask. There is no problem with that. While running and exercising, the body needs a lot of oxygen, so you should not wear a face mask," he said.

"Wearing a face mask has many benefits beyond preventing the spread of infection. People who are allergic to dust should wear a face mask, as today's air is heavily polluted with vehicle fumes and industrial waste. Wearing a face mask can also prevent the effects of direct inhalation of polluted air. All those working in environments where substances are likely to be inhaled must wear face masks. Although these are mentioned in the pollution control board regulations, many places do not follow it. The government should monitor it. Doctors and hospital staff must wear N95 masks." When asked if it is good to use face masks more than once.