In Brief
This study was conducted on a group of 150 volunteers (children,young adults, and older adults) of both sexes. The results showed that face masks were associated with an increased pulse rate and reduced arterial blood oxygen saturation without any associated clinical disorders. These effects were more pronounced in adult men, who tend to have lower tolerance to breathing and ear discomfort caused by the mask, compared to women and older adult volunteers
Highlights
Face masks are associated with ear discomfort.
Face masks increase the pulse rate.
Face masks reduce arterial blood oxygen saturation.
Face masks are less tolerated by young men
ABSTRACT
Objective
The World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the use of face masks in public. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of face masks on pulse rate and partial blood oxygen saturation in patients without cardiorespiratory disorders.
Methods
A total of 150 volunteers of both sexes were divided into three groups (n=50) according to age (children, young adults, and older adults). The partial blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate were measured for each volunteer using a digital oximeter while wearing a facial mask and remaining at rest. The masks were removed for two minutes, and partial blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate were remeasured. The materials and types of masks used were recorded. The t -test for paired samples was used to compare the mean values obtained before and after removing the masks.
Results
The most frequently used mask was a two-layered cloth (64.7%). A decrease in pulse rate was observed after removing the face mask in males, particularly in children (p=0.006) and young adults (p=0.034). Partial blood oxygen saturation levels increased in young adult males after mask removal (p=0.01).
Conclusion
The two-layer cotton tissue face masks are associated with a higher pulse rate and reduced arterial blood oxygen saturation without associated clinical disorders, mainly in adult men with a lower tolerance to breathing and ear discomfort.
Facial masks; Heart rate; Oxygen saturation; Respiration; SARS-CoV-2; Coronavirus infections; Age factors
