Did you know that nearly 30,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in United States emergency rooms annually? It is estimated that approximately 90% of these injuries could have been prevented if appropriate eye protection had been worn. Eye injuries are common in youth sports, as well as adult recreational and pro sports leagues. Basketball is the leading cause of sports-related eye injuries in the United States. Other high-risk sports include softball, racquetball, baseball, pellet guns, and hockey. These statistics underscore the critical importance of wearing proper protective eyewear while participating in sports that have a high probability of eye injuries. By doing so, eye injuries can be significantly reduced.
Types of Eye Injuries in Sports
Eye injuries may occur in virtually any sport; however, sports involving balls, racquets, or physical contact tend to cause a higher incidence of related injuries. The severity of these injuries can range from minor irritations to more significant or severe damage and may include corneal abrasions, blunt trauma, penetrating injuries, ultraviolet radiation (UV) damage, and chemical burns.
Common Eye Injuries
- Corneal Abrasions: Scratches on the surface of the eye, often caused by fingers, debris, or equipment
- Blunt Trauma: Impact injuries from balls, elbows, or other objects that may cause bleeding inside the eye, bruising, or even retinal detachment
- Penetrating Injuries: Objects piercing the eye, leading to serious damage or vision loss
- UV Damage or Radiation Eye Injury: Prolonged exposure to sunlight without proper eye protection, especially in outdoor sports, can harm the eyes
- Chemical Burns: Contact with chemicals used in sports fields or equipment can cause burns to the eyes
Severe injuries can have long-lasting effects on vision and could lead to surgical intervention or the possibility of permanent loss of vision. Even seemingly minor injuries can cause discomfort and require time away from sports and other daily activities. Spectators at sporting events run the risk of a misdirected ball or projectile being launched in their direction. Paying attention to flying objects, as you are observing the game, decreases the chance of an unintended eye injury.
Eye Injury Prevention is the Key
It is important to understand the risks associated with your chosen sport. Most sports-related eye injuries are preventable when risks are known, and appropriate eye protection is utilized. Here are a few suggestions to help mitigate the risks associated with your sport:
- Education: Be informed about your chosen sport and the significance of wearing appropriate protective gear.
- Choose the Correct Gear: Ensure that your protective eyewear is properly fitted and is the most suitable and effective equipment for your sport.
- Use Helmets with Face Guards: For such sports as baseball or hockey, helmets with face guards offer additional protection and guard against eye injuries.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: Utilize sports goggles, safety glasses, or face shields made from polycarbonate lenses, which are impact-resistant and provide exceptional eye protection, as recommended by the American Association of Ophthalmology (AAO). Regular glasses or sunglasses do not offer adequate protection. Athletes who wear contact lenses should still wear appropriate eye protection.
- Regular Eye Check-Ups: Visit your eye care professional regularly to evaluate eye health and obtain advice on the optimal protective eyewear for your needs and chosen sport.
Prevent Eye Injuries by Promoting Eye Safety Awareness
Promoting eye safety awareness is essential to reduce sports-related eye injury risks. Parents, coaches, and sports organizations play a pivotal role in educating athletes and other sports enthusiasts about the importance of wearing protective gear and advocating for its use, including during practice sessions. It is also important to replace protective eyewear at the first indication of damage. By prioritizing eye safety, preventable injuries can be minimized, allowing athletes to enjoy their favorite sports. Utilizing preventive measures can significantly decrease the risk of eye injuries.
