How to Handle an Eye Emergency During a Sports Game

Thousands of people suffer eye injuries each day. The injuries can lead to partial or total vision loss. They can be sustained at work, in school, at home, and on the sports field. People who are active in sports are susceptible to eye injuries. It’s why most sports require protective eyewear. Quick action is essential for the successful outcome of eye emergencies. 
 

Dealing With Eye Emergencies

If untreated, blunt trauma, cuts, chemical burns, punctures, and debris in the eye can cause temporary or permanent vision loss. If you sustain an injury, remain calm and take prompt and appropriate action. Acting fast can help prevent vision loss. Appropriate action will depend on the type of injury you sustain. 
 

Getting Appropriate Equipment

Every sports team should have first aid kits with appropriate equipment to deal with eye injuries. First aid can prevent the worsening of the injury before you get to the emergency room. The first aid kit should have eyewash and rigid eye shields, among other items. 
 

It is also a convenient place to have emergency contacts with instructions on how to seek immediate care. Everyone on the team should know where to find the first aid kit. 
 

Debris in the Eye 

If you get debris in the eye, avoid rubbing or applying pressure, which could cause further injury. Avoid touching the eye in an attempt to remove the debris. You can use a clean cloth or cotton bud. 
 

Try to lift the eyelid to dislodge the objects. Use tears or an eyewash to try to flush out the specks. If you cannot dislodge the debris, apply a loose bandage or cloth patch over the eye and seek medical attention.  
 

Blunt Force Trauma 

Blunt trauma injuries could be mild or severe, depending on the impact force. If you receive a blow to the eye, do not apply pressure. You can use a cold light compress to soothe the injury and reduce redness. 
 

Tape an ice pack on the forehead, allowing it to rest over the eye. Get immediate treatment if you experience pain, a black eye, or reduced vision. The symptoms could signify internal eye damage. 
 

Cuts and Punctures

Cuts and punctures on or around the eye can lead to bleeding, pain, and blurry vision. You can wipe off the blood on the eyelid, but avoid using water or other liquids to wash out the eye. Do not apply pressure to the injured eye. If an object penetrates the eye, do not attempt to remove it, which could cause further damage. Use a rigid shield to cover the eye and seek immediate medical care. 
 

Chemical Burns 

If you suffer chemical burns, do not rub or touch the eye. Use clean water to flush the eye. Hold the eye open under a tap or use a clean container to pour the water into the eye. Let the water run over the eye for up to 15 minutes. 
 

Do not allow the contaminated water to get into the uninjured eye. Seek immediate medical care even as you continue flushing the eye. 
 

For more on handling an eye emergency during a sports game, visit SpecTakular Boutique at our Dawsonville, Georgia office. Call (706) 216-7732 to schedule an appointment today.

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