Sports Eye Safety

Each year, an estimated 100,000 people are hurt by sports-related eye injuries. About 13,500 of these injuries result in permanent vision loss. In support of sports eye safety month this April, the American Academy of Ophthalmology reminds athletes everywhere that the great majority of sports-related eye injuries can be avoided by simply wearing the proper protection.

Our local team, The Carolina Hurricanes, had a player suffer such an injury. Calvin de Haan, an NHL defense player, spoke of his injury in a recent news article.

One of the best ways to protect your and your children’s eyes is by wearing sunglasses when you are spending time outside. Sunglasses protect your eyes from any harmful UV light. In addition, sunglasses provide a protective barrier from anything that may injure your eye like an errant golf ball or a low hanging stick. In addition, sports glasses, goggles and face shields provide that additional protection as well and can be used inside and outside while playing sports. If you do experience eye discomfort, blurred vision or pain after being hit in the eye or face seek professional eye care immediately.

Of course, having good clear vision can help you to avoid injury as well. Not only does clear vision help to avoid injury it helps to improve sports ability. It is much easier to hit that baseball or catch a lacrosse ball when you can see it distinctly.

Making sure you get regular yearly eye exams can make sure your vision is the clearest and it allows eye care providers, like us, to detect eye problems early. Call Kelly Eye Center at 919-282-1100 to schedule your appointment!