TYPE: Abstract
TOPIC: Chest Infections
PURPOSE: 1.To study interrelation between face-mask and hypercapnia in patients with obstructive airways diseases 2. Occurance of covid-19 in patients of obstructive airways diseases wearing face-mask
METHODS: Inclusion criteria: Patients more than 20 years of age Patients known case of obstructive aireays disease on treatment Patients with COPD GOLD B and GOLD C Patients not vaccinated for covid-19 Patients wearing face-mask regularly Exclusion criteria: Patients not consenting for the study Patients with recent history of Myocardial infarction in past 3 months Patients with active tuberculosis and on treatment
RESULTS: Our study population was male dominated with 70% males and 30% females Average age group in our study population was 50±6 years (p value<0.01) Average CAT score on initial evaluation was 30±5 (p value<0.01) 5 patients had developed an episode of acute exacerbation of COPD during the time of study and required hospitalisation Average PCO2 levels in hospitalised patients was 70±5mmHg (p value<0.1) There was no significant change noted in CAT score post evaluation after 4-6 weeks with average CAT scores being 30±4 (p value<0.01) There was no change in physical quality of life as measured by DASI index Incidence of covid-19 was approximately 1% with only one study subject developing covid-19 during the study period All subjects enrolled for the study were wearing face mask for at least 6-8 hours/day on an average
CONCLUSIONS: Face-mask does not cause hypercapnia in patients with obstructive airwats disease. The incidence of covid-19 was significantly lower in patients of obstructive airways disease wearing face-mask regularly.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Face mask is 100% effective and safe
DISCLOSURE: Nothing to declare.
KEYWORD: FACE MASK, COPD, COVID19