As fall arrives, many Albertans turn their attention to sports like hockey, football, and cross-country running. These activities promote great things like health and community, while also bringing some potential risks to your vision. Whether it be from a sudden flying puck to harsh contact on the field, an eye injury can happen in an instant. Knowing how to prevent and respond to these potential accidents is crucial.
At Lethbridge Vision Care, we can help you avoid vision loss on the field, as well as care for you after something has happened. We believe that both proactive safety and access to urgent eye care when accidents occur is vital for your continued health and lifestyle.
Why Fall Sports Raise Eye Safety Concerns
Fast-moving games like hockey and football come with frequent physical contact and the possibility of projectiles or hard objects striking the eye. Even endurance sports like cross-country running can expose athletes to some more environmentally sourced hazards such as dust, UV rays, or unexpected debris. If injury occurs and is left untreated, it can be a cause for concern. Damage to the eye, no matter how big or small, can lead to a lasting negative impact on your vision.
Thankfully, many of these injuries are easily preventable with the right precautions and solutions.
Protective Gear Matters
There is a treasure trove of properly fitted protective gear and eyewear that can significantly reduce the risk of sport-related injuries, especially to the eye. Polycarbonate lenses, for example, are impact-resistant and designed for active play. Most helmets for hockey, baseball, and football can be fitted with a clear visor of some sort or protective set of glasses when they are worn, making them great for safer play. Whether your child is starting their first hockey season or you’re an adult in a recreational league, wearing the right protection is a simple step that safeguards long-term eye health.
We can provide some basic forms of protection like glasses and specialized contact lenses. However, we can also help you decide what types of advanced protection might be best or necessary for you or your child during the games.
Urgent Care When You Need It
Despite best efforts, accidents can still often happen. That’s why Lethbridge Vision Centre offers urgent care for eye injuries. If you or your child experiences a series of sudden vision changes, pain, or trauma during a game, our team is prepared to provide timely assessments and treatment. Quick action and urgent care can make all the difference in protecting and preserving vision outcomes.
During emergencies, a fast response is necessary. Walk-ins to our office on the same day are more than acceptable, and we can work with you to schedule snap appointments or treat you then and there depending on what you want. At Lethbridge Vision Care, our team of professionals are dedicated to preserving your eyesight and getting you back up and running as soon as possible.
Consultation Aimed for Prevention
Along with basic protective measures, we at Lethbridge Vision Care offer a wide range of resources and education for you to become more knowledgeable about your eyes and injury prevention. We can give you consultation for a multitude of topics, with guides on how to deal with eye problems alongside tips on forming a more healthy lifestyle.
Building Healthy Habits On and Off the Field
Beyond protective eyewear, small habits add an extra layer of added protection. For outdoor sports, sunglasses with proper UV protection guard against sunlight exposure, while hydration and good nutrition support overall eye health. Athletes who prioritize these practices enjoy clearer vision and stronger performance season after season.
Keep Vision Top of Mind This Fall
Sports and extracurricular activities can bring countless benefits, but these things shouldn’t have to come at the expense of your sight. By using safety gear and being in the know with awareness and where to turn for urgent care, you can enjoy the coming sports seasons with confidence.
Contact us today for more information, to book an appointment, or advisory help. At Lethbridge Vision Centre, we’re here to help protect your eyes so you can focus on the game and not on the risks.
