Precautions To Save Your Sight While Playing Sports

Playing sports is a fantastic way to stay in shape, build muscle, promote development, improve motivation, increase confidence, provide better sleep, and can often bring along new friendships. Playing sports is beneficial not just physically but psychologically and socially too. However, the downside to recreational activity is the risk of injury. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 100,000 are injured each year due to sports-related eye injuries, with more than 25,000 people seeking emergency treatment. Sadly, about 13,500 of those injuries result in permanent vision loss. Eye injuries are most common in basketball, baseball, and racquet sports. About 90% of serious eye injuries can be prevented with the use of protective eyewear.

Precautions to save your sight while playing sports are important no matter your age. Broken bones due to injury can heal but serious eye injuries can have a lasting impact on the quality and clarity of your vision. Although a great option for those with prolonged sun exposure, prescription eyeglasses or sunglasses to block UVA or UVB radiation or glare are not enough to protect the eyes while playing sports. Choosing eye protection with polycarbonate lenses that have passed testing by ASTM, better known as the American Society of Testing and Materials, that are specifically approved for field hockey, soccer, basketball, and racquet sports. Protecting your head and eyes with a face mask or wired shield are recommended for lacrosse and ice hockey. For baseball players, batting helmets with polycarbonate shields will help to protect the eyes.  Eye guards and goggles are also recommended for those who play basketball and soccer as well as swimmers. Lastly, making sure you have clear vision to begin with will reduce the likelihood of injury. Take time to have your eyes checked to be sure you are not in need of prescription glasses or contact lenses for optimal vision.

Protecting your eyes during sports is important to both your health and enjoyment. If you experience any trauma to the eyes or reduced vision while playing sports, make an appointment with Associated Retina Consultants by calling 602-242-4928 or booking online at WEBSITE.