When COVID-19 swept the nation, everyone was rushing to get masked up. Cloth masks, KN95 masks, surgical masks, copper masks, and all kinds of masks became a necessity for every household. But since then, most states have abandoned masks as a mandatory preventive method against COVID, and only some remain firm about requiring masks.
But are they a foolproof prevention method against COVID and other illnesses? According to our research, masking may not be enough. They are effective to some degree, but to rely on them fully without pursuing other prevention methods may be causing more harm than good.
Read on to see what we found below:
Mask-wearing isn’t a foolproof prevention method
There is a certain percentage attached to masks’ effectiveness, and it’s a number that’s certainly quite a ways away from 100%. Viruses are 1 micron in terms of size. KN95 masks can block 50% of particles, and surgical masks block out 10%. They offer some form of protection, but to rely on them alone is definitely a mistake!
If you suspect you might have contracted COVID, getting tested and practicing social distancing is more effective than thinking a mask alone could protect you from the virus. Better to be safe than sorry!
Real people go through MIES
Mask-Induced Exhaustion Syndrome is a real side effect associated with masking for long hours. According to research, your O2 can drop to as much as 67% and C02 could significantly rise as much as 82% with an N95 mask on. This is concerning for people who exhaust themselves easily or have respiratory issues.
Bearing this in mind, those who live in states that are okay with going mask-free should absolutely do so to decrease their chances of MIES. Choosing to stay in well-ventilated, outdoor parks or establishments could also decrease their chances of contracting the virus.
Reliance on masks breeds complacency
Mask-wearing has the tendency to make us believe we are invincible. After all, wearing a mask daily can decrease the chances of you getting sick, and not just with COVID. However, this could also breed a complacent attitude that ignores other aspects of your health that you should be cultivating.
Remember that health is always holistic. Just because you mask up doesn’t mean you’re 100% protected, especially if your immunity is down. Take vitamins daily, commit to regular exercise, and consult with your physician for check-ups to always maintain your health. Masking may have some efficiency, but it certainly isn’t the only solution!
There are many alternative ways to improve health
COVID is a virus that attacks your immunity, and the best way to combat it is to increase your immunity and take care of your body using all the tools you have at your disposal. Think of your body as a car. Car owners regularly take their vehicles out to be maintained, even if they don’t see any visible issues. Shouldn’t you do the same with your body?
At Dr. Andrea Renee’s clinic, we offer a wide range of services that can help you maintain your health, including but not limited to, weight loss, exercise therapy, and acupuncture.
Masks are a tool, not a solution
At the end of the day, think of a mask as only one tool in the toolbox that you need to take care of your body. Without using all the other tools you have, you aren’t as protected as you might seem. This is why it’s important to know your body. Understand what its needs are and how you can best address them.
Learn more with us today!
Dr. Andrea Renee is the health and wellness doctor for you based in California! Her expertise includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, weight loss, exercise therapy, and more!
To get a consultation and find out the healthiest alternative solutions for you, click “Schedule Your Healing Today!” on the upper right side of her website to get started! Look forward to building your own holistic journey on your own terms.