Mask-associated dry eyes in Indian population: A patient-reported web-based survey

Abstract

Purpose: To present the outcomes of the mask-associated dry eyes (MADE) survey in an Indian scenario. Methods: An online survey was conducted amongst general population from May to July 2021 to assess the burden of dry eyes and MADE. To summarize the findings, descriptive statistics were employed, and statistical significance was determined between various mask practices and dry eye symptoms. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Four hundred and ten respondents are participated in this survey. Almost two third of patients (62.3%) used masks every day, and 50.7% wore them for more than six hours. Approximately 36% never experienced dry eye, 24% experienced it occasionally, and 41% experienced dry eye symptoms, with seven percent of patients experiencing it regularly. Around 30% of patients feel their symptoms started after they used the mask, whereas 70% believed that they existed before. About half of the patients (51.5%) feel that wearing the mask made their symptoms worse. Dryness symptoms, higher lubricant usage, and difficulties with air conditioning were found to be statistically significant when the frequency and hours of mask wear were increased. Furthermore, an increase in screen time was linked to an increase in eye tiredness (P = 0.018). Conclusion: The survey demonstrates that increased frequency and hours of mask usage leads to a worsening of dry eye symptoms. Additionally, worsening of eye tiredness was associated with increased screen time. The survey results are important for fellow ophthalmologists to better understand the impact of MADE on the quality of life of general population. This can be utilized to counsel the patients regarding the preventive and supportive eye care.

Keywords

• covid-19
• dry eyes
• mask-associated dry eyes