Due to the rising incidences of eye injuries in the US, October has been declared the Home Eye Safety awareness month by the Prevent Blindness America Association. The purpose is to dedicate this month to educating people regarding the impact of eye injuries at home and the steps that can be taken to avoid it.
6 staggering statistics about eye injuries in the US
Most people associate eye injuries with outdoor activities. They seem to think that the chances of incurring an eye injury are more significant when they are on the job. However, the figures by the
American Academy of Ophthalmology reveal a different tale.
- Over 2.5 million eye injuries occur in the US annually.
- Nearly 50,000 people lose their vision, partly or completely, due to these injuries.
- Medical costs of eye injuries amount to over $1.3 billion annually.
- Around 40% of eye injuries are sustained during home repairs, cooking, and cleaning.
- Over 40% of Eye injuries can be attributed to sports and other recreational activities.
- Over 78% of people sustaining eye injuries are not wearing eyewear at the time of the accident.
5 most common causes of eye injuries
No one likes to see the world with a blurry vision if they can help it. Thus, taking the utmost measures for the protection of eyes is mandatory.
Statistics have proven that most eye injuries occur within the confines of the household as people fail to take protective measures. Here are some of the most common causes of eye injuries that can lead to permanent vision loss.
1.Corneal abrasion
More commonly referred to as the scratched eye, this occurs when a small scratch is incurred to the eye's surface. This can happen due to excessive rubbing of the eyes due to a foreign body like dust or being poked in the eye.
The risk of infections increases during this injury and one can experience symptoms like watering, redness, and sensitivity to light.
2.Chemical burns
Any caustic substance can splash into the eyes accidentally. While some of these are harmless, others can lead to severe damage.
3.Foreign items
Sometimes, a foreign object like metal can penetrate the eyes. This is a medical emergency. Any attempts to remove the item yourself can worsen the injury.
Small shards of metal can also get embedded in the eye surface, forming a scar and leading to irritation and tearing.
4.Trauma
Any trauma inflicted to the eye can cause swollen eyelids. Such an injury can be sustained during a fight or collision wherein black eye forms.
5.Bleeding
Even a minor eye injury can cause eye blooding as the blood leaks from the small, broken blood vessels. It is usually painless and resolves spontaneously.
5 steps to take to prevent further eye damage
In case you incur eye injury, a misstep can make matters worse. Here's what you need to do;
- Avoid rubbing or even touching the eyes. Refrain from applying pressure.
- In case of a foreign object penetration, don't attempt to remove it yourself.
- Don't use any ointment on the eyes unless prescribed by the doctor.
- Use plenty of water to wash your eyes thoroughly if exposed to any chemical.
- Cover your eyes with a gauze patch or shield till the time you get medical attention.
5 precautions to take to minimize the risk of eye injury
A bit of care can save you from quite a lot of trouble. Now that you know the most common eye injuries, here are some tips that can help evade the situation.
- Make sure to wear eye goggles or glasses while working around the garage or indulging in any DIY project.
- Wash hands after working around the house before touching your eyes.
- Always wear protective gear while working on your vehicle.
- Have a response action kit at hand, ready for an emergency.
- Never underestimate eye injuries and seek medical attention, irrespective of how trivial the situation appears.
Conclusion
Accidents happen even to the most careful people. However, it is in your hands to ensure that the risk and damage thereafter remain minimal. Measures taken at the right time can save you from a life of despair.
Therefore, this October, pledge to spread more knowledge about eye safety at home and take all the necessary precautions.
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