The fact that the edges of KN95 masks are designed to form a seal around the nose and mouth to achieve a very close facial fit has been a significant factor in why people around the world ask different curious questions about quality breathing. Many often ask, will I breathe accurately if I wear a KN95 mask? Or yet, some fear that they wouldn’t be able to breathe in oxygen since the edges are very close to the face. But, if I may ask, will wearing a KN95 mask cause a loss of oxygen?
To begin with, it is essential to note that the facepiece was designed as such to help prevent the transmission of airborne particles and tiny particles before they reach the sensitive tissue in the lungs - KN95 masks are brilliant air filters. Besides, some renowned scientists have recommended wearing KN95 masks for the prevention benefits, and in some parts of the world, those who wear the facepiece get their blood oxygen measured. Also, many health professionals prefer wearing KN95 masks and for longer hours settle the dispute. Before we conclude, let’s critically examine the oxygen test conducted for the KN95 masks recently by some seasoned researchers.
THE KN95 MASKS OXYGEN TEST
Firstly, we should not act based on our intuition, especially on scientific matters. For clarity, scientists have already begun testing the KN95 masks oxygen supply capacity by randomly assigning people to wear the tight-fitting KN95 masks for long hours.
In this process, the researchers tracked the participants' oxygen levels through their skin as they wore their masks. (The participants weren’t just sitting they were exercising with the masks). Meanwhile, according to the report published by the most respected clinics in Australia, normal oxygen levels stand between 95% – 100%. The oxygen test conducted for people showed that participants were right in the middle of the range when they are without the masks.
To further uncover the veil, have you noticed that KN95 masks have exhaust valves on them? Hang on! Those exhaust valves are not there for fashion; they make it a lot more comfortable to breathe. In a recent survey, some people argued that if people wear masks for long hours, the oxygen will reduce. Well, some health care professionals have got that covered too. Researchers have successfully tracked some nurses working over 12-hour shifts while wearing KN95 masks and found no decrease in the oxygen level.
At this point, it seems we’re reaching a convincing conclusion, as regard KN95 masks and loss of oxygen. In light of the above-given shreds of evidence, the impression that wearing a face mask may reduce the intake of the users' oxygen or force users to inhale carbon dioxide is nothing but a mere assumption.
BOTTOM LINE
You need to know that even while having moderate exercise, studies from renowned researchers all around the world have found no evidence that KN95 masks can decrease oxygen levels or cause loss of oxygen.