Comparing Effect of Donning Different Types of Face Masks on Oxygen Saturation, Pulse Rate and Comforts among Healthy Wearers

Abstract

Background: In facing the pandemic of COVID-19, the role of face mask is utmost important and has been considered the most basic personal protective equipment to be used against Corona virus. In spite of that, there are significant population disagree with wearing mask as they perceive wearing mask is unsafe, causing discomfort and may even compromise their health. This pose significant challenge in the battle against COVID-19. Thus, this study aims to determine the effect of different types of masking on oxygen saturation, pulse rate and comfort of the healthy wearers.

Methods: In this crossover method comparison study, four different types of mask were worn by ten (10) similar healthy adult participants, for an equal duration of time and perform the same set of activities within the range of typical sedentary routines. The oxygen saturation and pulse rate of each wearer was measured with pulse oximeter before masking, after 30 minutes and 1 hour of masking. The subjective symptoms of dizziness, pain around facial and ear region, tachypnea, itchiness, discomfort and fogginess (for subjects who wear spectacles) were also recorded. The masks consist of the most commonly used single surgical mask, double surgical mask, N95 mask and the stick-on mask Lekad.

Results: The results indicated no significant effect in oxygen saturation level changes between different types of masks worn by participants, however there was significant effect in pulse rate changes. Nonetheless, subjects wearing N95 masks experienced more dizziness, itchiness, tachypnea and discomfort compared with other mask. Stick-on mask Lekad reported less subjective symptoms and no fogginess for participants wearing spectacles and therefore was preferred for health professionals working in enclosed atmosphere.

Conclusion: It was indicated that regardless of types of mask, masking should be encouraged and continuously practiced in the public area to break the chain of virus transmission. The innovative stick-on mask Lekad seems to report a more stable oxygen saturation, pulse rate and experienced less subjective symptoms than other types of mask and has a good potential to emerge as a better mask to be used in a crowded and enclosed environment.