According to studies it’s said that around 6,000 Americans suffer from eye injury related to playing land and water sports, 90% of eye injuries are avoidable if appropriate protective eye wear is worn during game play and 72% of sports related eye injuries occur in people less than 25 years of age.
Does anyone remember professional MLB pitcher, Aroldis Chapman being hit in the face by a line drive? What about Home Run Derby champion Giancarlo Stanon getting hit under his eye by a pitch? These athletes were involved in a disastrous orbital fracture.
The different eye injuries from sports like basketball, swimming, surfing, baseball, hockey, etc. are:
- Corneal Abrasions
- Blunt Trauma
- Inflamed Iris
- Fracture of the Eye Socket
- Swollen or Detached Retinas
- Vision Loss
September is National Sports Eye Safety Month to raise awareness and educate players, coaches, and parents on the ways to keep eyes safe in the game. Most eye injuries related to sports can be prevented by wearing proper eye protection. Any player that wears glasses or contacts can request for prescription eye protective wear. Make sure the lenses stay in place or can withhold contact sports and provide a cushion along the brow and bridge of the nose. Remember to choose the anti-fog coating on the lenses to prevent obstructed vision. All athletes should get a comprehensive eye exam by their Ophthalmologist. This expert can detect underlying vision problems which can improve performance. Be sure to set a good example by wearing eye protection whenever you play a sport!
