Eye Injury Prevention Month: How to protect your vision?

Our eyes are incredibly delicate and play a vital role in our daily lives, yet they are often taken for granted. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, nearly 90% of eye injuries are preventable. Eye Injury Prevention Month aims to raise awareness and provide practical tips to prevent them.

Here are some tips to prevent eye injuries:

1. Wear Protective Eyewear: Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields should be worn in environments where there is a risk of eye injury. Ensure they meet the appropriate safety standards for your activity.
   

2. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Stay aware of potential hazards in your environment, whether at work, home, or during recreational activities. Taking a moment to assess risks can prevent accidents.

3. Take Breaks from Screens: To reduce digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

4. Educate and Supervise: Teach children about the importance of eye safety and supervise their activities to prevent accidents. Encourage the use of protective eyewear during sports and play.

But, despite taking precautions, I know accidents can still happen. Knowing how to respond promptly can make a significant difference.

1. Do Not Rub or Apply Pressure: Rubbing the eye can exacerbate the injury. Instead, shield the eye and seek medical attention immediately.

2. Flush with Clean Water: If a chemical splashes into your eye, rinse it with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical care.

3. Avoid Removing Foreign Objects: If something is stuck in your eye, do not try to remove it yourself. Cover the eye with a protective shield and seek for a nearest eye clinic.

4. Seek Professional Help: Any eye injury should be evaluated by an eye care professional such as Optometrist to prevent long-term damage.

If unsure what to do, contact us so we can advise. Click this link https://www.lhvisionclinic.com/ to get our Hamilton and Burlington eye clinic’s contact information.

This month is the perfect time to educate yourself and your loved ones about eye safety. Remember, your vision is invaluable – take the steps to protect it today!

Book your eye exam today!

Reference: https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/25020-seeing-eye-to-eye-with-comfort-and-performance#:~:text=Most%20of%20them%20result%20from,in%20construction%2C%20manufacturing%20and%20mining.&text=According%20to%20the%20American%20Academy,with%20proper%20safety%20eyewear%20protection.