Accidents can happen anytime but the risks of eye injuries and vision loss during sports and sporting events is higher than average. Learn more about eye safety and sports here!
Prevention and Treatment
Regular eye glasses do not offer proper protection so be sure to choose the appropriate eye protection recommended for your particular sport. Regular glasses can shatter and cause further injuries. Using the proper eye protection for your choice of sport can be the difference between slight injury and blindness!
Sports that involve projectiles and sharp objects could be potentially hazardous to vision and sight. Wearing the correct eye and face protection can save sight.
If you have an eye injury, go to the Emergency Room immediately! even if th e injury appears to be minor, delaying medical attention can result in permanent vision loss or blindness.
Sports and Injuries
Basketball is the number one sport where eye injuries occur in the United States. It is followed closely by baseball, softball, Airsoft rifles, pellet guns, racquetball and hockey. Obviously contact and combat sports are also up there. Choose eye protectors that have been tested to meet the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards or that pass the CSA racquet sports standard.
Read AAO’s full guidelines about protective eyewear for sports and activities for additional details.
If You Have Vision Loss Already
If you already have reduced vision in one or both eyes, consider whether it’s worth the risk of injuring your other eye before participating in a high-risk sport. Check with your optometrist or ophthalmologist to see what appropriate eye protection is available and whether they advise participating in any high impact or other high-risk sports.
Spectator Eye Safety at Sporting Events
Spectators at sporting events should also be careful. Balls, bats, and players can end up in the stands at any time. Keep your eyes on the game and watch out for foul balls and flying objects!
For more helpful eye care and vision care tips, please visit our main blog page.