Mask induced dry eye (MIDE) is a new type of dry eye coined during 2020 due to the Covid-19 super-spreader virus and it effects anyone including kids wearing masks. If wearing a mask causes you ocular irritation and dry eye read on… The delicate eye surface dries out when a poorly fitting mask allows propelled air to flow upwards forcing a stream of warm air to cover the surface of the eye, leading to irritation. This can occur while working long hours on screens in air- conditioned offices, and for people already suffering from dry eye the effects are worse. Here are tips to reduce gritty, dry, and uncomfortable eyes while wearing a mask.

• 1.Ensure your mask fits properly, not too tight or loose with glasses and sunglasses. Press the mask into the top and sides of your nose to obtain a tight seal, restricting air from flowing under your glasses. Place the mask under the bottom of your frame if the frame is long. Loosen the bottom part of the mask every 20mins to allow air to escape over your chin. Remember to change your mask daily and every four hours if it becomes wet and soggy as this renders it ineffective.
• 2.Use lubricating drops like Hylo Forte eye drops every 4 hours to keep the eye surface wet and clean.
• 3.Limit time in air-conditioned environments and take regular breaks from digital screens. Remember the 20/20/20 Rule Every 20 mins look away 20 feet for 20 seconds. Do 20 full blinks too.