Genel Tıp Dergisi (Aug 2023)
Mask-Related Headache Among Health Workers During COVID-19 Pandemics: Study from Somalia
Abstract
Aim: After the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), new headaches have been reported to develop or worsen among healthcare workers who regularly wear personal protective equipments. In this study, we investigated the possible relationship between de-novo (new-onset) headache features associated with the mask used and pre-existing and exacerbated headaches. It is the first study on this subject on behalf of Somalia. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted at the Mogadishu COVID-19 pandemic hospital, Somalia, with volunteer healthcare workers. Data were collected through a questionnaire. Participants were asked 15 questions in the survey and Pearson-chi-square test was used as statistics. Results: This study was conducted with 200 healthcare workers working in the hospital, 114 (57%) were male, 86 (43%) were female, and the mean age was 28. Participants 90 (45%) used surgical masks, 32 (16%) filtered masks (N95), 78 (39%) both; majority of 109 (54.5%) wore masks for more than 6 hours a day. Pre-existing headache was reported by78(39%) of the subjects. 55(70%) of those with pre-existing headache reported aggravation of their headache. Statistically significant relationship was found between duration of mask use and aggravation of pre-existing headache. De-novo headache characteristics were throbbing 21(20%), pressing 31(29%), unilateral 19(18%), and 35(33%) bilateral. A statistically significant relationship was also found between the duration of use of face mask and the development of de-novo headache, regardless of mask type. Conclusion: As per our study, prolonged use of face masks during COVID-19 pandemics was associated with de-novo headaches and exacerbation of pre-existing headache. This situation, which has caused complaints as healthcare professionals and some patients continue to wear masks, will continue to be investigated.
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