Millions of people participate in sports every year. While most have a great time and stay safe, some can get hurt while participating in physical activities. A common type of injury is to the eye. Here's a guide to what can send an athlete to the eye doctor and how to prevent such situations.

What Eye Injuries Do Athletes Often Experience?

Although participating in sports is essential for a healthy lifestyle, it also runs the risk of experiencing eye injuries. If you do get hurt, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of recovery. Some common problems that can arise due to physical activity include:

• Corneal Abrasion: This condition develops when the clear outer layer of the eye is scratched, often due to an abrasive substance or an impact from a ball. It usually heals on its own within a few days, but a severe case needs to be examined by a doctor.

• Blunt Trauma: A painful injury sustained after an item hits the eyeball hard enough to cause swelling. While it can sometimes heal on its own, you should always have an eye doctor examine it. This approach will ensure no lasting damage, as it can lead to vision loss if neglected.
• Chemical Burn: Some sports can expose athletes to chemicals, such as swimming in chlorinated pools. While harmless in most cases, it becomes dangerous if there's too much exposure.
• Detached Retina: This condition happens when the retina, the layer of tissue at the back of the eye that helps you see, separates from the rest of the organ. It often occurs due to a blow to the head or face and can be a serious injury, possibly leaving your vision blurry.

How Can You Prevent Them?

Fortunately, a few preventative methods will help an athlete avoid eye injuries. First and foremost, you must always wear protective eyewear. This is especially true when playing hockey, football, lacrosse, and basketball, the last of which is the leading cause of sports-related eye injuries. Polycarbonate lenses are ideal for most activities because they're impact-resistant and offer ultraviolet (UV) protection. As for swimming, wear goggles to limit exposing your eyes to harsh chemicals.

If you play a sport that requires a helmet, such as ice hockey, wear the equipment with a polycarbonate face mask or wire shield. In this case, you can also consult a doctor to determine what will best protect your eyes. Lastly, remain aware of your surroundings, pay attention to the environment, and avoid dangerous situations if possible. For example, avoid playing if it's excessively windy outside.

If you've experienced an eye injury while playing sports, visit West Valley Vision Center in Fairbanks, AK. Backed by decades of experience, their eye doctors use industry-leading technology to provide high-quality services, from routine exams to surgery. Learn more about how they can help you by calling (907) 479-4700 or visiting them online.