How to Protect Yourself from Sports Related Eye Injuries

April is Sport Eye Safety Month!

Every year, roughly 100,000 people are hurt by sports-related eye injuries. Sadly, about 13,500 of these injuries result in permanent vision loss or blindness. In an effort to combat these cases, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has declared April as Sports Eye Safety Month. The Hawaiian Eye Center aims to raise awareness of the importance of using proper protective eyewear during high-intensity or outdoor sports, to significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries that may damage a person’s vision or cause blindness.

Majority of sports related eye injuries occur from “high risk” sports such as ones that use balls, sticks or racquets, as well as contact sports such as boxing or football, and water or outdoors sports. These injuries are often a result of hands and elbows that may strike someone in the face, sports balls or objects that cause blunt force trauma, and even abrasive particles and UV rays from the water and outdoors climate that may injure the eye’s cornea.

Oftentimes, many people also overlook the eye safety risks that come from water and outdoor sports. Due to prolonged and often intensified exposure to UV light, these sports can also cause severe radiation eye injuries, and even lead to serious eye diseases, especially for individuals of fair complexion and/or using photosynthesizing drugs. Water, snow, and ice also create a reflective surface for ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and can cause photokeratitis, or UV keratitis, which is when the cornea is sunburned and becomes inflamed. Whether you are outside hiking for a couple of hours, swimming in a pool, surfing in the ocean, or snowboarding in the mountains, if you are going to be in the sun for extended periods of time, especially in an environment that may reflect and amplify UV rays, it is crucial that you were proper protective eyewear.

It is important to note that although most sports may have a high risk of eye injuries, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, over 90 percent of these injuries are preventable. To prevent these injuries, Hawaiian Eye Center suggests three protective measures to protect your eyes from sports related eye injuries. First and foremost, it is crucial that athletes wear protective eyewear that’s appropriate for their sport. Eye guards and goggles are best for popular sports like baseball, basketball, soccer, football, hockey, and outdoor sports, in addition to helmets and faceguards that may also protect your eyes. It is also important that you choose eye protectors that are shatter resistant or have been tested to meet the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards or that pass the CSA racquet sports standard. Polycarbonate swimming goggles with secured head bands are highly recommended for use during water sports, and sunglasses as well as special snow glasses should be worn during outdoor sports.

Second, it is vital that athletes receive regular eye exams from an ophthalmologist to check for any signs of possible sports related eye injuries. Athletes who wear glasses or contacts should speak with their doctor about prescription sports eye guards for optimal vision and safety during physical activity.

Third and lastly, it is highly important to raise awareness and enlighten others of eye safety during sports. Next time those around you want to skip the protective gear, gently remind them that EVEN if it appears minor, sports related eye injuries can cause long-lasting damage to the eye, (especially if medical attention is delayed). It is always better to be safe than sorry and by protecting your sight, you will also be securing your ability to fully enjoy the world around you. As head Ophthalmologist of Hawaiian Eye Center, Dr. Steven Rhee, expresses “Consider the value of sight and risk of life-changing injury each time you engage in a sport or recreational activity, and make the choice to protect yourself through appropriate eyewear”.