Do people who suffer from pollen allergies benefit from keeping their mask outdoors, to avoid suffering too much from allergic rhinitis?
If, since last March, wearing a mask has no longer been compulsory outdoors, people who suffer from pollen allergies are tempted to keep it on, to protect against allergens. Is this really a good idea?
Yes, of course, replies the French Federation of Allergology which, as early as spring 2020, when the wearing of masks was still in its infancy, called for its use outdoors to be systematized as much as possible, “particularly during periods of pollen peaks and in situations at risk of significant exposure to allergens.
Frédéric de Blay, president of the French Federation of Allergology explained in a press release : “The mask has already proven its effectiveness and is therefore becoming an object that enters the daily life of the French. Like Asian countries, wearing a mask must become a therapeutic solution to be considered on the long term, including in a world without covid, to protect against environmental diseases.”
When should you wear it?
Allergists recommend wearing a mask for all patients over the age of 11 with respiratory allergies (allergic rhinitis or asthma) due to pollen:
- During walks in the countryside
- While mowing the lawn or gardening
- When you spend time outdoors without significant physical activity.
However, wearing a mask is not the miracle solution and should not exempt allergy sufferers from taking their treatment because when they sneeze (which is very common in cases of allergy) the mask becomes moist and filters particles much less exterior. Furthermore, surgical masks do not stick perfectly to the face and still allow some pollen to pass through the sides. Favor the use of FFP2 type masks which have better grip on the cheeks.
Read also :