Covid-19 - Efficacy of Masks

[undercoverbrother]

Originally Posted by ken0042

So why does it feel like it's harder to breathe with a mask on? It it all in my head?

Don't get me wrong, I'm fully pro-mask as I know the benefits from a spread perspective. It just feels like a relief to take it off after wearing it for a little while.

In short, yes I believe it is all on your head. I felt the same thing the first time I wore a gas mask. You can breath fine, but it's just different, and sometimes that is all that is needed to trigger your mind.

But again this is all conjecture by me.

[Cali Panthers Fan]

It's about the perception of being able to fill your lungs, and the rate of intake is slightly lessened by a mask. Oxygen saturation of the blood still happens even if you don't draw large amounts of air into the lungs.

[GreenLantern2814]

Originally Posted by ken0042

So why does it feel like it's harder to breathe with a mask on? It it all in my head?

Don't get me wrong, I'm fully pro-mask as I know the benefits from a spread perspective. It just feels like a relief to take it off after wearing it for a little while.

If you have masks with adjustable straps, try wearing it a little looser - so long as you maintain your distancing and keep it over your nose and mouth. I don’t see how the net protective benefit to others diminishes significantly.

[CalgaryFan1988]

^^ I agree with this Ken. Without knowing what mask you're wearing, it could just be that it isn't the right fit, or is too tight.

"Face coverings" are just designed to stop your droplets (spit) from going on other people, they don't need to be super tight, they aren't designed to keep anything out.