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Hello everyone! I work in a hospital and with flu season in full swing it is a requirement that as soon as I step foot in the hospital I must have a mask on and has to remain on until I leave, because I signed a form that can't receive a flu shot. The masks issued by the hospital seem to be causing irritation headaches, nasal congestion, and itchiness. Anyone else in this predicament? I emailed our director and sent me to a cooperate compliance person and said I must wear one of the masks provided by the hospital suggesting I apply some cream on my face to help with the irritation. Not sure what that would be?! If only they could understand our sensitivities! Thanks, I appreciate any suggestions!
How frustrating! I would
How frustrating! I would imagine it is some sort of chemical placed inside or woven into the mask that is considered "anti bacterial" or "sterile" by the company producing them. I wonder if you could find out a list of the ingredients in the mask or find a mask that is made of material that would not bother your skin.
It is amazing how sensitive we can be to specific substances! I have been going through a tough round of die off/detox since Dec 16th and I am unable to wear my wedding ring right now because it is irritating the underlying skin.... there are other symptoms accompanying the detox such as muscle issues/vision etc, but my point is that I understand the skin irritation. I hope it is resolved quickly for you;)
Katie
Oh yuck!! I was going to
Oh yuck!! I was going to suggest the same thing as Katie. Have you researched any masks made without those harsh chemicals? I've had to wear those icky masks a couple times for various reasons (thankfully, only for a few minutes!), and they just smell of chemicals!! I wonder if there's a healthier alternative??
Thanks ladies! Yes, the masks
Thanks ladies! Yes, the masks are no fun and will be ready for flu season to be over for sure! I am on the hunt for a safer option, but unfortunately even the more natural alternatives have ingredients that Dr. B says may cause me to flare if I accidentally ingest, so it gets quite complicated. My head is spinning from searching masks. Might just be something I will have to deal with for the next 3 long months of my life! Ugh! Katie, sorry to hear still going through a rough patch, hope it gets better soon! Tinkerbell, totally agree they definitely smell all chemically! On the hunt for the safe mask that meets hospital requirements! Not an easy task!