An Investigation of temporomandibular pain, headache, and fatigue in relation with long-term mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic period

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effects of long-term mask use on temporomandibular pain, headache, and fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic period via a survey.

Methods: The survey was sent online, and symptoms associated with mask use, perception of mask discomfort, temporomandibular dysfunction, fatigue, headache, and trigger points of temporomandibular joint were evaluated.

Results: For the study, 909 people were screened. Head, neck, face, throat, ear, and jaw pain, cheek tension, teeth clamping, acne, mask trace, palpitation, and voice and sleep disorders were different between groups (p < 0.05). The individuals' temporomandibular dysfunction and fatigue were different between groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Long-term mask use can cause many symptoms, such as headache, jaw pain, and fatigue. Furthermore, increased mask-wearing time can trigger all these symptoms. The authors recommend relaxing breaks and exercises for neck, jaw, and face muscles along with the use of appropriate masks to minimize negative symptoms.

Keywords: COVID-19; Mask; fatigue; headache; temporomandibular joint disorders.