Chronic Mask Wearing

Wearing a mask continuously compounds stress on the weakened respiratory systems of fragile, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals. Chronic smokers, people with COPD, and asthmatics should not wear a mask all day because the added respiratory stress is counterproductive. Wearing a mask for extended periods stresses the respiratory muscles surrounding the lungs. Masks should be removed when alone in a car, outdoors, or in uncrowded spaces to allow unrestricted airflow. Even healthy individuals should alternate between wearing and removing the mask rather than keeping it on without interruption.