Why face masks are safe and can reduce coronavirus risk

While those with concerns should talk to their doctor, experts say the phrase “trouble breathing” is for people with chronic lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

(COPD), or those who can't catch their breath at rest or who need oxygen assistance to help them breathe. If you fall into this category, chances are you don't need a mask anyway,

since “you shouldn't be leaving your house” and venturing into public places, Glenn says. Individuals with chronic lung disease are among those at high risk for severe illness from a

coronavirus infection and are advised to limit public outings as much as possible to avoid exposure to the virus. "I think for people with chronic lung disease, COVID does not make

their life any easier by any means,” Pottinger says. “But it certainly is very important that they talk with their physician about this because not only can we not afford to let them spread

the infection to others, we can't allow them to catch the infection either.” FIND A COMFORTABLE FACE COVERING If you find that breathing becomes a bit more difficult with a mask on,

you're not alone. Breathing is something that most of us do every day, without thought, Pottinger says. “And if there's something that's different in that natural process, it

can be very distressing,” he adds. You may even feel like you're not getting enough air on deep inhales, even though you are. Pottinger's advice: Do a little experimentation. With

so many designs, brands and materials out there, take a few different masks for a test drive and find out what's most comfortable. "I want people to rehearse the practice:

Don't just wear it sitting still, but walk around, climb a flight of stairs, see how that feels. Get used to it. Those feelings are not dangerous, they just may be new or uncomfortable.

And if it doesn't feel comfortable, try a different mask,” Pottinger says. “To me, the threat of a mask is not about gas exchange; it's about a mask that's uncomfortable,

that doesn't fit properly — a mask that people fiddle with using their hands.” And remember: A comfortable mask can't stop the coronavirus alone. It's still important to keep

a distance of at least 6 feet from other people and to wash your hands often to prevent COVID-19. “If we do those things, everything's going to get dramatically better. It won't

solve the pandemic, but it will buy us time,” Pottinger says.