With the increasing cases of the Omicron virus, the
government recommends wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining social
distancing even after getting fully vaccinated.

While maintaining social distancing and sanitizing hands
is easy, wearing masks for a long period can cause discomfort and headaches.
Especially, people who stay out for longer hours have to wear masks all day and
they often experience headaches or jaw pain. If you can relate to this problem,
this article is for you.

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Masks have helped to control the transmission of
coronavirus but as the lockdowns are eased and people are staying out for
longer hours, there is an increase in the complaints of mask-related headaches.
After wearing a mask for long period many people experience headaches,
discomfort, dehydration, and disorientation. But do you know what causes this
problem?

People suffering from cold, cough, asthma, allergies, and
skin problems find it difficult to wear a mask for a long duration. But
it is compulsory to follow the government guidelines and public health measures
for our own and everyone’s safety despite the little discomfort we have to
face.

Also Read | South African doctors see signs omicron is milder than delta

How
wearing a facemask can cause headaches?

Wearing a tight face mask for a long period can cause
pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ connects your lower jaw to the
rest of your skull. The muscles and tissues that allow your jaw to move can get
irritated when a mask pulls behind your ears. The nerve that affects the jaw
starts sending pain signals that can be felt as a headache.

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How
to prevent jaw pain and headaches caused due to masks?

1. Avoid wearing masks that are tight behind your ears.
Tight masks pull your ears which can irritate the nearby nerves. Use loose
masks and keep the tight and restrictive masks for high-risk situations

2. Watch the position of your jaw and teeth. Stress and
worry can cause you to cramp your jaw muscles and teeth. Your teeth should not
be touching and your jaw should be relaxed.

Also Read | Can physical distancing curb transmission of airborne aerosols?

3. A bad posture can also cause TMJ pain as it increases
muscle tension. So always try to maintain a good posture.

4. Try some neck exercises and stretches to release
tension.

5. Perform some simple jaw exercises.

6. To reduce stress practice meditation and relaxation
techniques.