A fib and face masks

[Jonathan_C]

Hi - first up, I apologise if this should be asked on a different forum.

Are face masks, especially when wearing them during exercise a known trigger for afib?

I can think of a few reasons why they would be.

[Hidden]

Not sure as I havent had a fib for a couple yr. Thankfully Im retired and in a rural area so my mask wearing is only for brief moments when forced to shop. But I dont tolerate heat well and rebreathing the same warm air as my glasses fog up doesnt feel good, a little claustrophobic.

[BobD Volunteer]

If you are isolating why do you need a mask? I have been for many walks in the woods and along by the river and found no need for one.

[Jonathan_C in reply to BobD]

I live in South Africa, we have a 3 hour exercise window ... there is no where to hide during that time. If there aren't people nearby I drop the mask.

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Jonathan_C]

Wearing a mask will not protect you from the virus as there are plenty of other ways it can enter your body but if you unknowingly have it then a mask may possibly protect others from being infected by you.

[Jonathan_C in reply to BobD]

I agree, but wearing masks in public is mandatory here (SA).

[diannetrussell]

Hi Jonathan, I've been reading stuff about masks reducing our oxygen intake. That would probably not be good for any cardiovascular issue...

[heartmatters1]

On the very odd occasion I have to wear one (in some shops where social distancing is more difficult) I find they make me quite claustrophobic & I feel I am not breathing properly & I start messing with it, which of course is not what one is supposed to do. I get quite anxious, glasses steam up, hot & bothered, I can’t wait to get out & breath properly. Can’t be good for us AF’ers!

My hat goes off to all the essential workers, who have to wear them for hours on end.

Best wishes Ally