Posted by: Eye Specialists of Mid Florida in Blog, News and Events
By the Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida Eye Care Team
Did you know that 30,000 people are treated for sports-related eye injuries each year? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, these injuries are becoming more common, making eye protection more important than ever.
Which Sports Cause the Most Eye Injuries?
While many sports pose a risk, basketball leads the way in sports-related eye injuries in the U.S. Other high-risk activities include:
- Baseball & softball
- Racquetball
- Pellet or airsoft guns
- Hockey
What Kind of Injuries Can Occur?
Eye injuries can range from mild to severe, including:
✅ Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye’s surface)
✅ Bruising around the eye
✅ Retinal detachment (which can cause vision loss)
✅ Traumatic cataracts
✅ Internal bleeding
✅ Fractures of the bones around the eye
How to Protect Your Eyes While Playing Sports
The good news? Most serious eye injuries can be prevented with the right protective gear! Here’s how you can keep your vision safe:
– Wear sports goggles with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses for sports like basketball, racquetball, soccer, and field hockey.
– Use a helmet with a face mask or wire shield for baseball, ice hockey, and lacrosse.
– Choose eye protection that meets ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) standards.
– Replace protective eyewear when it becomes damaged or discolored—worn-out lenses lose their effectiveness.
– If you wear glasses, use sports goggles over them to protect both your eyes and frames.
Make Eye Safety Part of Your Game Plan
Protective eyewear should be as routine as putting your other protective equipment (pads, masks). Ensuring the right sport-specific eyewear is key to preventing injuries.
If you have questions about the best protective eyewear for your sport, visit our office for an appointment to discuss further. And if an eye injury does occur, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment with one of our eye specialists. To schedule an appointment call us at 800-282-3937 or online at EYESFL.COM – click the “Schedule an Appointment” icon. Stay safe and play smart this April—and every month!
