Masks have become the new normal in keeping everyone safe during the pandemic. This increased use of masks has led to an increase in the number of patients with dry eye symptoms, chalazion, and hordeolum, also known as, styes. Symptoms include irritation, redness, burning, tearing, or painful swelling of the eyelids. When wearing masks, our breath tends to go upwards towards our eyes and can cause them to dry out. The bacteria from our breath can clog the glands in our eyelids, which can lead to styes.
So, what can we do to prevent dry eyes and styes?
Using artificial tears three to four times a day can provide a significant amount of relief when your eyes are irritated.
Choose a mask that fits well around the bridge of your nose, so air does not travel upwards. Tip: Tape the mask to your nose with medical tape.
Don’t reuse masks.
Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash containing hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or povidone-iodine. This reduces the bacterial load.
Remove makeup thoroughly and wash your face to remove any bacteria from your pores.
If you do notice that you have a stye or increasing dryness in your eyes, be sure to make an appointment for an evaluation. If medication needs to be prescribed, we are here for you.
Tip: Most medical PPO insurances can be used for dry eye and style evaluation.
Author: Dr. Anna M. Pennino, Optometrist
Dr. Anna Pennino, O.D. received her baccalaureate degree from California State University at Fullerton. She earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from New England College of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts in 1991. Post-doctorate, Dr. Pennino participated in clinical research, evaluating the ocular side effects of cholesterol-lowering medication. She is a native Californian practicing in her two locations; Del Rey Optometry, Playa Del Rey (2002), and South Gate Optometry, South Gate (2007). "I am committed to delivering personalized patient care. I do my best to connect with each patient to solve their visual needs while educating and giving everyone a reason to smile." Her professional interests are primary care optometry and specialty contact lenses including multifocal and myopia control. She has been a sponsoring doctor for Unite For Sight, a non-profit organization that empowers communities worldwide to improve eye health and eliminate preventable blindness. She has participated in contact lens solution studies and contact lens consulting.
Dr. Pennino also enjoys expressing her creative side. She is the co-designer of her exclusive eyewear collection PEPPER ZAGG. In addition to optometry and designing eyewear, Dr. Pennino is an enthusiastic skier, scuba diver, and adventurous traveler. She is an active volunteer at the Orange County Food Bank and Kinetic Academy Charter School, founded by her husband. She can’t resist an ice-cold diet coke and believes the best medicine is a good laugh.
Dr. Pennino is married to an ambitious banker, and is a mom of two sets of twin boys! In her spare time when she is not chauffeuring her boys to their various activities, she looks forward to relaxing with her husband and a glass of red wine.