September is Sports Eye Safety Month

More than 25,000 people seek treatment for sports-related eye injuries each year. But almost all of these injuries can be prevented with proper eye protection. Board-certified Optometrist Dr. Helen Zervas of Family Eye Care in Bristol says, “September is Sports Eye Safety Month and with kids back in school and sports teams in full swing, it is important to understand the best methods for prevention and treatment of eye injuries. Regular eye glasses do not provide sufficient protection.”

Did you know that sports-related eye injuries occur most frequently in water sports, basketball, and baseball/softball? Wearing proper safety goggles (lensed polycarbonate protectors) is essential. Dr. Zervas says, “In order to be assured that your eyes are protected, it is important that any sports protective eyewear is labeled as ASTM F803-approved. This eyewear is performance tested to give you the highest levels of protection.” For youth baseball, batting helmets with polycarbonate face shields are a must and hockey helmets/face shields should be approved by the U.S. Amateur Hockey Association. Proper eyewear that is well-fitting and protective, including quality sunglasses that offer UV protection and non-fogging, are critical to maintaining key visual skills for sports and preventing injuries.

Eyeguards are recommended for racquet sports, basketball and soccer and can even be used in tandem with helmets in football, hockey and baseball. “Be sure that the fit is secure, and be aware that these are also available in prescription strength. Our professionals can help you to find the right prescription for your eyes and to ensure proper fit.”

“We do not recommend eye wear without lenses or lenses that do not stay secure for sports. Lenses that are removable should pop out, away from the eye, to prevent injury. Always be sure that the eye wear has been officially tested for use in athletics and that the material is impact-resistant. Special padding in the frames can also help protect your skin.”

In the event of eye injuries, sudden vision loss, seeing flashes of light, and eye infections, you should be seen by an eye doctor immediately. Zervas says, “Given the nature and potential problems that are associated with certain eye emergencies, we always ensure that these cases are given the highest in priority and we accommodate same-day emergency patients.”

Family Eye Care is located at 580 King Street in Bristol. The office can be reached at 860.584.5528 or online at https://www.familyeyecaredr.com/.