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Face masks are now commonplace as people do what they can to avoid spreading contagious viruses such as COVID19. But now a meme has been circulating that masks may cause people to breathe in excess carbon dioxide.
When wearing a mask in public, it’s best to make sure it’s a cloth mask. These are great for public shared spaces, especially when you can’t socially distance effectively.
N95s are effective, but it’s better not to buy these so that medical professionals will have as much access to these as possible. You should avoid N95s that are easily found in hardware stores because the virus can still enter through these valves.
Back to the image, is it true that masks increase your likelihood of breathing in carbon dioxide?
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3. Let’s Understand Carbon Dioxide’s Effects
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First off, breathing in excess of carbon dioxide is bad for you.
It causes a condition called hypercapnia.
Symptoms of hypercapnia include dizziness and sluggishness.
2. And Let’s Remember What Carbon Actually Is
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Carbon is a minuscule particle.
It’s much smaller than the tiny holes in any type of face mask.
As such, it will always flow in and out of the mask as you breathe.
1. How Face Masks Work
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Face masks always have small pores that make them breathable.
They are manufactured to trap bodily fluids such as saliva or mucus.
That’s exactly how they can work to prevent the transmission of viruses because carriers release fewer contagious droplets thanks to their mask.
Of course, if you’ve worn a face mask you know it takes some getting used to. They can feel warm and make you very aware of your breath, but carbon dioxide isn’t trapped because face masks are made of materials with tiny holes that allow carbon dioxide molecules to flow outward.
Professionals have spoken out to debunk this misinformation.
Now that you know the facts, continue wearing your face mask and stay safe! As long as it’s made of cloth or a porous material, you’ll be just fine!
Are there any other possible myths you’ve heard about face masks? Please share them, and maybe we can debunk them together!
