According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, thousands of sports-related eye injuries occur in the United States each year. In April, athletes are encouraged to keep their eyes safe because many injuries that occur each year are preventable. Find out more about sports eye safety month!
Common Sports Eye Injuries
Sports involving projectiles pose the greatest risk of injury, but almost every sport does. Basketball, baseball, and racquet sports are the most common causes of eye injuries, but full contact sports are also dangerous. Boxing and martial arts can result in serious, blinding injuries. Fishing can also cause an eye injury.
Corneal abrasions and eye lacerations are common sports-related injuries. Contact sports can also cause eye socket fractures and blunt trauma.
The most common Eye Injuries:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Racquetball
Sports Eye Safety: Prevention and Injury
Prevention and prompt action are essential for eye protection, and it all begins with a pre-activity eye exam. It is critical to ensure proper vision for the activity so that if an eye injury occurs, the pre-activity eye exam can be used as a baseline comparison.
It is also critical to wear the appropriate eye protection for your sport. Swimmers require goggles, whereas football players require a properly guarded helmet. Inquire with your coach or another team official if eye protection is required or recommended for your sport. Avoid Blindness Sports eye guards are recommended for baseball, basketball, soccer, football, and hockey.
If you believe you may have injured your eye, or if your child complains of eye pain during or after a game, seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist or primary care physician. Any eye injury should be treated as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Before engaging in potentially hazardous activities, always consider the risks and educate yourself on proper precautions. Call us today is you have questions or need help picking ot safety eyewear.
For more helpful eye care and vision care tips, please visit our main blog page.
Source: dmei.org
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