Selection of the right mask

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 117 views

The Effect of Using Facial Masks on the Sensation of Dyspnea When Exercising

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a significant change in our daily lives, with the use of facial masks becoming an essential part of our daily routine. While masks have proven to be effective in reducing the spread of the virus, there are still concerns about their impact on individual comfort, especially when exercising. One of the common complaints is the sensation of dyspnea, or shortness of breath, when wearing a mask during physical activity. This study aims to explore the relationship between the use of masks and the sensation of dyspnea during exercise in healthy individuals.

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the world, with Indonesia being one of the countries severely affected. As of March 10, 2022, there were 5,847,900 cases of positive confirmation and 151,414 deaths related to COVID-19. The Government of the Republic of Indonesia has encouraged people to make the use of masks a part of daily life, with the aim of reducing the spread of the virus. However, there are still a group of people who have a negative view of the use of masks, with the main reason being discomfort when breathing and the emergence of a dyspnea sensation when wearing a mask, especially when exercising.

Methodology

This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental method with a post-test control design. The exercise test was carried out using a Borg protocol involving three different groups: one control group without a mask, one group uses a surgical mask, and one group uses an N95 mask. The results of the analysis using two-way repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant relationship between observed dyspnea sensations and temperatures in the superior labia area (p < 0.05). Although there is a minimum increase in the heart rate, respiratory frequency, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure, no significant relationship is found between these variables.

Results

The results of this study indicate that the use of facial masks can lead to an increase in the sensation of dyspnea during exercise. The sensation of dyspnea that appears is quite real when the subject performs exercises with high intensity. Increased temperature around the mouth in groups that use the N95 mask after conducting an exercise test is also related to an increase in the sensation of dyspnea. This suggests that the type of mask used can have an impact on the sensation of dyspnea during exercise.

Discussion

The use of facial masks has become an inseparable thing in everyday life since the COVID-19 pandemic. While masks are effective in reducing the risk of viral transmission, their impact on individual comfort, especially when exercising, needs to be examined further. Dyspnea sensation or difficulty breathing is a common phenomenon reported by many individuals when exercising using masks. This phenomenon can be caused by several factors.

First, the use of masks can reduce the amount of air that can be inhaled, thereby increasing respiratory resistance. When doing intense physical activity, the body needs more oxygen. Masks, although designed to filter particles and viruses, can also block optimal air flow. This can cause discomfort and shortness of breath, especially for individuals with certain health conditions or who are not accustomed to exercising while using masks.

Second, the temperature around the face area can increase due to the use of masks, especially with the N95 type which has a more dense filtration layer. This increase in temperature has the potential to worsen the sensation of dyspnea, because respiratory muscles need to work harder to maintain efficient breathing. This study indicates that an increase in temperature around the mouth contributes to an increase in dyspnea sensation, emphasizing the importance of considering the type of mask used in the context of exercise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering the impact of facial masks on individual comfort, especially when exercising. The use of masks can lead to an increase in the sensation of dyspnea during exercise, which can be caused by several factors, including reduced air flow and increased temperature around the face area. It is essential for individuals to recognize their boundaries and take steps to mitigate the negative impacts of mask use during exercise. This can include selecting the right mask, such as a more loose surgical mask or not even using a mask in an open area with the right health protocol, and practicing breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Selection of the right mask: Individuals should select a mask that is comfortable and allows for optimal air flow. A more loose surgical mask may be a better option than an N95 mask, which has a more dense filtration layer.
Breathing training: Individuals should practice breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings to help them feel more comfortable when exercising with masks.
Open area exercise: Individuals should consider exercising in an open area without a mask, if possible, to reduce the risk of dyspnea sensation.
Health protocol: Individuals should follow the right health protocol when exercising with masks, including regular hand washing and social distancing.

Future Research Directions

This study highlights the need for further research on the impact of facial masks on individual comfort, especially when exercising. Future studies should investigate the effects of different types of masks on respiratory function and the sensation of dyspnea during exercise. Additionally, studies should explore the effectiveness of breathing training and sports techniques that focus on breathing settings in reducing the sensation of dyspnea during exercise.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including the small sample size and the use of a quasi-experimental design. Future studies should aim to recruit a larger sample size and use a more robust research design to increase the validity of the findings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering the impact of facial masks on individual comfort, especially when exercising. The use of masks can lead to an increase in the sensation of dyspnea during exercise, which can be caused by several factors, including reduced air flow and increased temperature around the face area. It is essential for individuals to recognize their boundaries and take steps to mitigate the negative impacts of mask use during exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Effect of Facial Masks on Dyspnea Sensation When Exercising

Q: What is dyspnea sensation?

A: Dyspnea sensation, also known as shortness of breath, is a common phenomenon reported by many individuals when exercising while wearing a facial mask. It is a feeling of difficulty breathing or feeling like you are not getting enough air.

Q: Why do facial masks cause dyspnea sensation during exercise?

A: Facial masks can cause dyspnea sensation during exercise due to several factors, including reduced air flow and increased temperature around the face area. When wearing a mask, the amount of air that can be inhaled is reduced, which can lead to increased respiratory resistance. Additionally, the temperature around the face area can increase due to the use of masks, especially with the N95 type which has a more dense filtration layer.

Q: What types of masks are most likely to cause dyspnea sensation during exercise?

A: N95 masks are more likely to cause dyspnea sensation during exercise due to their dense filtration layer, which can increase the temperature around the face area and reduce air flow.

Q: Can I still exercise safely while wearing a facial mask?

A: Yes, you can still exercise safely while wearing a facial mask. However, it is essential to take steps to mitigate the negative impacts of mask use during exercise, such as selecting the right mask, practicing breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings, and exercising in an open area without a mask if possible.

Q: How can I reduce the sensation of dyspnea when exercising with a facial mask?

A: To reduce the sensation of dyspnea when exercising with a facial mask, you can try the following:

Select a mask that is comfortable and allows for optimal air flow.
Practice breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings.
Exercise in an open area without a mask if possible.
Take regular breaks to rest and recover.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Q: Can I use a different type of mask that is designed for exercise?

A: Yes, there are different types of masks that are designed for exercise, such as masks with a valve or a breathing hole. These masks can help to reduce the sensation of dyspnea during exercise by allowing for better air flow.

Q: How can I determine if I am experiencing dyspnea sensation due to the facial mask?

A: If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or feeling like you are not getting enough air while exercising with a facial mask, it is likely that you are experiencing dyspnea sensation. Other symptoms may include:

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Feeling like you are going to pass out
Coughing or wheezing
Feeling like you are not getting enough oxygen

Q: What should I do if I experience dyspnea sensation while exercising with a facial mask?

A: If you experience dyspnea sensation while exercising with a facial mask, you should stop exercising immediately and remove the mask. If the sensation persists, you should seek medical attention.

Q: Can I still exercise if I have a pre-existing medical condition that affects my breathing?

A: If you have a pre-existing medical condition that affects your breathing, you should consult with your doctor before exercising with a facial mask. Your doctor can provide guidance on how to safely exercise with a mask and what precautions to take.

Q: How can I stay safe while exercising with a facial mask?

A: To stay safe while exercising with a facial mask, you should:

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care of the mask.
Choose a mask that is designed for exercise and allows for optimal air flow.
Practice breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings.
Exercise in an open area without a mask if possible.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Take regular breaks to rest and recover.

Q: Can I still exercise if I am not used to exercising with a facial mask?

A: Yes, you can still exercise if you are not used to exercising with a facial mask. However, it is essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. You should also listen to your body and take regular breaks to rest and recover.

Q: How can I get used to exercising with a facial mask?

A: To get used to exercising with a facial mask, you can try the following:

Start with short, low-intensity workouts and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
Practice breathing training or sports techniques that focus on breathing settings.
Choose a mask that is comfortable and allows for optimal air flow.
Exercise in an open area without a mask if possible.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Take regular breaks to rest and recover.