Eye injuries present a major problem for people of all ages and levels of ability who play sports. Unfortunately, many of them fail to recognize such dangers until it is too late. Whether you are an athlete or someone who plays sports for leisure, it’s important to keep your eyes healthy and protected when engaging in this kind of activity. Read on as the trusted eye doctor at Opti-Care provides an overview of sports-related eye injuries.
Types of Sports-Related Eye Injuries
Sports-related eye injuries vary significantly, with some being more serious than others. Common types of sport-related eye injuries include corneal abrasions, elevated intraocular pressure and hemorrhages, retinal detachment, optic nerve damage, and traumatic cataracts. Some symptoms may include foreign bodies in the eyes and bruises on or around the eyes. If you notice any of these symptoms after playing sports, it’s best to visit an eye doctor right away so they can assess your condition properly.
Treatment of Sports-Related Eye Injuries
The treatment for sports-related eye injuries depends on the nature of the harm caused. For example, corneal abrasions can often be remedied with mild eye drops or antibiotics. Dry eye treatments may be recommended depending on the injury’s severity. The optometrist will determine the best type of treatment and monitor the healing progress over time to ensure a proper recovery.
Prevention of Sports-Related Eye Injuries
The best way to prevent sports-related eye injuries is to wear proper protective eyewear whenever engaging in any physical activity or sport. When shopping for protective eyewear, make sure the glasses and lenses meet guidelines set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and impact standards outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International. Depending on your prescription strength, you may need to look into special sporting glasses, which you can find in a local eye care center.
No one should take sports-related eye injuries lightly. As such, protect your eyes by wearing proper protective eyewear for any activity or sport you participate in, and be diligent about seeing an optometrist if symptoms occur. At Opti-Care, we provide professional eye care services to protect your vision. Whether you require prescription eyeglasses or want to schedule an eye exam, call (410) 795-8670, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.