Healthy Living
Preventing Eye Injuries in Kids
More than 90 percent of all eye injuries can be prevented. Yet sadly, thousands of children (and adults, too) have eye damage or blindness from accidents at home, in the car or playing sports.
In addition to sports, thousands of eye injuries can also occur from accidents at home, at play or in the car.
What Can Happen to the Eye?
Severe cases of eye injuries can lead to permanent vision loss. Many injuries can happen with kids sports and can include serious eye injuries such as:- Retinal detachment
- Internal bleeding and inflammation in both the front and back of the eye
- Injuries to the cornea with compromise to the integrity of the eye
- Orbital bone fractures
- Severe infections
In addition to sports, thousands of eye injuries can also occur from accidents at home, at play or in the car.
Causes of Eye Injuries in Children
Common household items can be life changing when they cause eye injury. Pay close attention, especially with young children. And if a toy is recommended for age 10+, don’t give it to your 5 year-old. Items that can cause problems include:- School/office supplies such as paper clips, pencils, scissors and rubber bands
- Bungee cords
- Wire coat hangers
- Chemicals and sprays
- Projectile toys such as darts, bows and arrows
- Missile-firing toys
- Recreational activities involving BB guns, as the BB pellets can penetrate the globe/eye and orbit and lead to serious blinding injuries
What to Do in Case of Eye Injury
If an eye injury occurs, seek medical help and keep in mind the following:- Do not touch, rub or apply pressure to the injured eye.
- Do not try to remove any object stuck in the eye. For small debris, lift eye lid and ask child to blink rapidly to see if tears will flush out the particle. If not, close the eye and seek treatment.
- Do not apply ointment or medication to the eye.
- In the event of chemical exposure, flush with plenty of water for at least 10 minutes at home before seeking medical attention.
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