Each year, an estimated 100,000 people suffer sports-related eye injuries, and about 13,500 of these result in permanent vision loss. The good news? 90% of these injuries can be prevented with the right protective gear. Some sports and activities pose a higher risk to your vision than others.
Common sports-related eye injuries include:
- Blunt trauma: A particular danger during contact sports, a direct blow can cause injuries ranging from black eyes to ruptured eyeballs and detached retinas.
- Chemicals and irritants: Sweat, cleaning materials and chlorine from swimming pools can cause irritation and redness.
- Corneal abrasions: Balls, gear or even a fingernail can cause scrapes or scratches on the surface of the cornea.
- Fractured orbit: A break in the bone surrounding the eye, typically from a strong impact.
- Foreign objects: Debris like dirt or dust entering the eye, common in sports like soccer or basketball.
The key to preventing any of these eye injuries is to wear the proper gear for your sport:
- Basketball: Wear impact-resistant polycarbonate eye protection.
- Baseball and softball: Use a faceguard or batting helmet with a polycarbonate shield.
- Football: Wear protective eyewear like sports goggles or glasses with strong frames and a strap and shield your eyes with a visor.
- Hockey: Don’t go out on the ice without a helmet and a full-face mask.
- Swimming and diving: Wear well-fitting goggles to protect your eyes from the water and chlorine.
Don’t let an eye injury sideline you. See the game. Protect your future. Play smart—wear eye protection!
