Protect Your Eyes During Sports Eye Safety Awareness Month

With all this beautiful weather and sunshine that we’ve been having lately, more of you are gearing up to play outdoor and indoor sports. While sports and activities are enjoyable and contribute to a healthier lifestyle, Dr Sampson stresses the importance of protecting your eyes to prevent serious damage and possible vision loss.

“Protective eye wear can prevent a lot of the sports-related eye injuries that ophthalmologists treat every year,” said Dr. Alan D. Sampson, ophthalmologist and CEO of Creekside Medical Plaza. “By protecting your eyes, you can make sure that you and your family have a safe and fun time while playing your favorite sports.

Sports injuries can include corneal abrasions, bruises, retinal detachments and internal bleeding. The most serious injuries may cause vision loss. Additionally, patients who have had previous eye injuries may have a higher risk for developing glaucoma.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has designated April as Sports Eye Safety Awareness Month and reminds the public that every year 40,000 people suffer from eye injuries related to sports and recreational activities. The AAO states that athletes of all ages need to wear appropriate, sport-specific protective eyewear properly fitted by an eye care professional.

There is eyewear created for most of the sports that we love to play including basketball, baseball, football, swimming, paintball, water polo, and more. It is also important to protect eyes from harmful UV rays during outdoor recreational activities.

If you ever just want to ask a professional some questions about the best protective eyewear for your hobbies and lifestyle, come by the Optical Shop at Creekside Medical Plaza and we would love to talk to you.

Photo Courtesy of sippakorn yamkasikorn

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