Sports-Related Eye Injuries

About 40,000 Americans suffer sports-related eye injuries each year.
HealthDay (5/10, Preidt) reported that in the U.S. each year, approximately “40,000 people suffer sports-related eye injuries,” including “corneal abrasions, eyelid bruising, retinal detachment, and internal bleeding,” which can lead to loss of vision, infection, and even “an increased risk of developing glaucoma.” Therefore, doctors “recommend that all athletes wear appropriate, sports-specific eye protection properly fitted by an eye-care professional.” The “highest level of impact protection” is offered by “[l]enses made from polycarbonate materials,” which “can withstand the force of a ball or other projectile traveling at 90 miles per hour.” Eye protection is particularly important for children. Parents should ensure that “their children wear eye protection,” because “eye protection isn’t mandatory in most children’s sports leagues.” Finally, if the worst should happen, and a “person does suffer an eye injury, it’s important to seek immediate medical help. Even a seemingly minor impact can cause serious injury.” People who experience “a black eye, pain, or visual problem occur[ring] after an eye has been hit, [should] contact an eye doctor, or seek emergency medical help” as soon as possible.