Playing sports offers numerous physical and mental health benefits to children. However, certain sports also come with risks of injuries, including eye injuries.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eye injuries are a leading cause of blindness in children. Here are the top 10 sports that pose eye injury risks to kids:.

1. Baseball and Softball

Baseball and softball players are often at risk of getting hit by a ball. Direct blows to the eye can cause corneal abrasions, lacerations, and even retinal detachments.

2. Basketball

Basketball is a high-speed sport that involves close contact with other players. Elbows and fingers frequently poke the eye during games, leading to corneal abrasions, blood clots, and even retinal detachment.

3. Football

Football is a high-contact sport that comes with the risk of both blunt and penetrating eye injuries. Blunt force from another player’s helmet, for example, can cause fractures in the eye socket or worse.

Penetrating injuries from fingers or other objects can lead to retinal detachment and vision loss.

4. Hockey

Hockey players are at risk of getting hit by pucks or sticks, which can cause severe eye injuries such as orbital fractures and retinal detachment.

5. Lacrosse

Lacrosse balls are hard and travel at high speeds, making them a significant eye injury risk. Players are often at risk of getting hit in the eye with a ball or stick, leading to corneal abrasions, fractures, and even retinal detachment.

6. Martial Arts

Martial arts involve close-range contact with other players and hard surfaces. Strikes to the face can cause eye injuries such as fractures, retinal detachments, and even blindness.

7. Racquet Sports

Racquet sports such as tennis, squash, and badminton come with the risk of getting hit by a ball or racquet, causing corneal abrasions, lacerations, and even retinal detachment.

8. Soccer

Soccer players often compete for the ball, putting them at risk of getting hit by an elbow or ball in the face. This can cause a variety of eye injuries such as facial fractures, corneal abrasions, and even concussions.

9. Swimming

Swimmers are at risk of getting chemical burns from pool water, which can harm the eyes. They are also at risk of getting hit by objects or other swimmers, causing various eye injuries.

10. Wrestling

Wrestling is a close-contact sport that poses a risk of getting elbowed or kicked in the face. This can cause numerous eye injuries such as facial fractures, corneal abrasions, and even retinal detachment.

Preventing Eye Injuries Among Children Who Play Sports

Prevention is key to avoiding eye injuries in children who play sports. Here are some ways to prevent eye injuries:.

Ensure your child wears protective gear specific to their sport such as a helmet with a face shield or goggles.
Encourage your child to follow the rules of the sport and prioritize eye safety.
Make sure coaches and other adults supervising the sport are trained and knowledgeable about sports safety.

Conclusion

Eye injuries are a serious concern for children who play sports. Understanding the most common sports associated with eye injuries can go a long way in preventing them.

Always prioritize eye safety and ensure your child wears the appropriate protective gear while playing sports. With proper prevention measures, your child can safely enjoy the benefits of playing sports.