School of Medicine Publications and Presentations

Does Mask Usage Worsen Symptoms in Patients With Rhinosinusitis Balloon Sinuplasty Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Document Type

Response or Comment

Publication Date

3-9-2021

Abstract

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing guidelines have reshaped the way that we live our lives. Perhaps the most common and strictly adopted measure has been mask wearing. Mask wearing, whether it be cloth, surgical, or N95, has quickly become the new norm in the ongoing struggle against this pandemic and has been proven to be effective in curbing its high infection rate. There has, however, been growing opposition to these policies by a substantial part of the general population who claims that masks are ineffective and can worsen breathing. To some, the choice to use or not use a mask has morphed into a point of political contention, rather than a choice rooted in concerns for public health. This commentary attempts to investigate the validity of these claims and explore how clinicians can encourage the usage of masks despite the fears and confusion against them.

Comments

American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation 2021

https://aao-hnsfjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/JR6R83V575NY4Y536UUX?target=10.1177/01945998211000419

Publication Title

Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

DOI

10.1177/01945998211000419

Academic Level

medical student

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