Keeping an Eye on Safety
Keeping an Eye on Safety
April marks Sports Eye Safety Month and as we step into the summer season of athleticism and competition, it is crucial to remember that our eyes are not invincible.
Sports-related eye injuries are more common than you may think. From netball to swimming, any sport carries a risk of eye trauma. It is estimated that 10% of sports-related injuries in the UK involve the eye. Fortunately, we can reduce the risk of eye injuries by using the correct sports eyewear.
Depending on the activity, this could be a protective helmet with a face shield, goggles or specialist eyewear which is specifically designed for a particular sport such as football, or cycling. These protective measures act as a barrier against flying objects, collisions and many other potential hazards, shielding both the eye itself and the eye socket area.
However, having the correct eyewear isn’t enough: the correct fitting and maintenance of our eyewear is equally important. Ill-fitting or damaged protective gear can compromise the effectiveness and can increase the risk of injury. You must regularly inspect and replace any protective gear as needed. Our team is committed to helping you check the overall condition of your eyewear, just pop into one of our practices to discuss.
It is also essential to recognise the signs of a sports-related eye injury and know when to respond promptly. Symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, redness or any sensitivity to light should never be ignored as these sensations could indicate a more serious issue that requires medical attention. Acting quickly can make a huge difference in preserving your vision and preventing any long-term complications.
In addition to protecting against injuries, maintaining overall eye health is crucial for your sports performance. Whether you're a casual runner or a hardcore badminton player, regular eye tests can detect any underlying issues that may impact your performance.
If you’re concerned about your eye health, visit one of our practices today. We also stock a great range of protective prescription glasses from ‘Inland Sports Protection’.