While face masks protect us from the spread of COVID, they can be challenging to breathe in. For people with asthma, the challenge is even greater. Although they report difficulty breathing and discomfort while wearing a face mask, most people with asthma still use them in public places during the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study finds. But how do they do it? Keep reading for tips wearing a mask if you have asthma.
University of Illinois Chicago researchers conducted an online survey of more than 500 adults with asthma. They found that 84% reported discomfort and 75% reported trouble breathing or shortness of breath at least occasionally while wearing a face mask to guard against COVID-19.
Still, "the majority of those surveyed said about masks, 'Just wear it,'" study co-author Dr. Sharmilee Nyenhuis said in a university news release. Nyenhuis is an associate professor in the College of Medicine.
Poorer asthma control and wearing a mask for longer periods of time were associated with more symptoms while wearing a mask, according to the study. The findings were published in the January issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.
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As well as answering survey questions, participants were asked open-ended questions about their experiences wearing masks and their recommendations for other people with asthma.
In that part of the study, 45% of participants said they had problems breathing and increased coughing when wearing a mask; 39% said they had no change in their asthma when wearing a mask, and 2% said their asthma symptoms improved when wearing a mask, likely because the mask filtered out pollen and pollutants that trigger respiratory distress, according to the researchers.
About 5% of the participants said they don't always wear a mask.
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Tips for wearing a mask with asthma
The study participants offered suggestions about mask-wearing for others with asthma. They included:
- Take the time to find a comfortable, well-fitting mask.
- Keep your inhaler with you.
- Stay on top of your asthma medications.
- Make sure your mask is at room temperature if cold triggers your asthma.
- Take mask breaks.
- Wear a mask around your home for approximately 20 minutes to give yourself time to adjust to how it feels.
- Plan your trip in advance by writing a list of items/errands, so you complete your trip as efficiently as possible resulting in less time having to wear a mask.
"Taking a mask break is important. It allows for opportunities to take large, deep breaths and do some breathing techniques," says Nyenhuis, who suggested that employers consider making accommodations for those with asthma to take safe mask breaks.
More tips for managing your asthma during the pandemic
Asthma Canada offers the following tips on keeping your asthma under control during the pandemic:
- Keep taking your controller medication daily or as prescribed. This will help cut your risk of an asthma attack being triggered by any respiratory virus, including COVID-19.
- Carry your reliever inhaler with you every day, in case your asthma symptoms flare-up.
- Monitor your asthma symptoms closely and follow your Asthma Action Plan to help you recognize and manage asthma symptoms, and know when to seek advice from your healthcare provider or emergency help.
- If you must travel, pack all asthma medications in your carry-on luggage so it is easily accessible. Pack extra asthma medication in case your travel plans change or are delayed.
- Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest and fluids, and eat good nutritious food.
- Ensure that you speak with your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations. Getting COVID-19 vaccinations and both the influenza vaccination (flu shot) and pneumococcal disease vaccination are important steps people with asthma can take to help stay healthy.
There is no reason a person with asthma should not wear a mask, but those who have concerns about wearing a mask should talk with their doctor, Nyenhuis adds.
