Given how eyesight is one of your most valuable senses, it’s always a good idea to take measures that can keep it safe and healthy. This is especially crucial when you play sports. April, in fact, is designated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as Sports Eye Safety Month. This makes it the perfect time to promote awareness on sports eye safety, and what you can do to ensure it. Joel H McGahen OD, the premier optometrist in the area, shares more here.
1. Use protective eyewear. This offers the simplest and most effective way to safeguard your eyes from sports injuries. Protective eyewear is usually made of tough polycarbonate, an impact-resistant plastic that also offers resistance to ultraviolet rays. Depending on the sports, protective eyewear may range from safety goggles to face guards.
2. Choose the right type of protective eyewear. You should understand that eyeglasses (while a safe and easy solution to correct certain vision problems) can’t be used in sports because they don’t provide enough eye protection. Make sure to use only the appropriate type of protective eyewear for specific sports. For instance:
3. Make sure your kids wear them too. If you have a child who is an athlete, make sure they always use protective eyewear not only when they’re playing, but during practice, as well. Sports that run the highest risk of eye injuries include baseball, softball, basketball, fencing, hockey and mountain biking. Kids who play badminton, golf, soccer or tennis should also wear protective eyewear since these sports come with moderate risk of eye injuries.
When in need of high-quality sports protective eyewear, you only need to turn to the area’s trusted eye doctor, Joel H McGahen OD. We’ll be more than happy to help you explore your options, and decide on the eyewear that best suits your needs. We serve Chambersburg, PA and the surrounding areas. Call us today at (717) 264-4012 or fill out this contact form to schedule your appointment.