Eye Injury Prevention

It's almost Summer time and most of us are outdoors at work or at play not realizing the potential risks we are putting our eyes through. Accidental eye injury is the leading cause of visual impairment in the United States.
About one million people suffer from eye injuries and 90% of these accidents can be prevented. 
Everyone should take simple safety measures to prevent serious injuries to the eye.  Protective eye wear should be worn at all times when you are:

  • Cleaning - While working with cleaning products or using chemicals you should always read the instructions carefully.  Many products you use to clean are very dangerous and can cause blindness or permanent damage to your eyes.
  • Working - Objects can fly into your eyes unexpectedly, you should always use precaution.  While working on a car battery acid or sparks from the battery can damage your eyes.
  • Gardening - Harsh chemicals can accidentally splash into the eyes causing damage.  When operating lawn equipment flying objects such as rocks or stones can fly into your eyes.  It is a good idea to inspect the area before operating lawn equipment.  Also branches can poke you in the eyes.  It is best to use caution at all times when gardening. 
  • Playing - When playing sports fast moving balls can cause severe pain and visual impairment.  Fireworks are commonly used in the summer and too often serious injuries occur.  Fireworks should never be used.
If an eye injury does occur, medical help should be sought immediately.  Chemical burns, cuts on the eye, blows to the eye, and foreign bodies stuck in the eye are all considered emergencies and should be treated by an ophthalmologist immediately.

By protecting your eyes at home, work or play you can save your eye sight.  Safety glasses have impact-resistant lenses and should be worn when around flying particles, sparks, chemicals, harsh sprays, trees, shrubs and fast moving balls.

Have a fun and safe summer this year!

This message was brought to you by Friedberg Eye Associates and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

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