Imagine yourself gliding effortlessly on a surfboard, the salty ocean spray hitting your face as you ride the waves. The sun is shining, the breeze is perfect, and you feel like you’re on top of the world. But amidst all this blissful surfing experience, have you ever stopped to think about the potential dangers that could be lurking just below the surface?
As surfers, we often focus on honing our skills and conquering those massive swells, but one thing we may not pay enough attention to is protecting our precious eyes from common injuries while riding those waves.
So, What are common eye injuries you can get while surfing?
Pterygium, also known as surfer’s eye, is a common eye injury for surfers. It’s a raised, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva that extends onto the cornea. Pterygium can occur on either side of the eye. The main cause of pterygium is long-term exposure to UV light. In mild cases, your eyes may be red, swollen, and irritated. If pterygium grows, your vision may be blocked or blurred. Surfers can also sustain eye injuries from being hit with the nose, tail, and fins of surfboards.
So before you hit those waves again, let’s take a closer look at some common eye injuries experienced while surfing and how you can prevent them. Trust us, your eyes will thank you later.
Table of Contents
LACERATIONS
Lacerations and cuts, often caused by contact with surfboards, coral, or rocks, are among the most common injuries sustained while surfing.
These injuries can be quite painful and may even lead to infections if not appropriately treated.
To avoid lacerations while surfing, surfers can follow these helpful tips:
- Use protective gear: Ensuring you have the right protective gear, such as a wetsuit, rash guard, and booties, can significantly reduce the risk of lacerations from contact with sharp objects in the water.
- Choose your location wisely: Surfing in areas known for hazards like sharp rocks or coral reefs increases the likelihood of lacerations. Hence, choosing a suitable location for surfing is critical in preventing such injuries.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: While out on the waves, it is vital to pay attention to your surroundings to avoid collisions with other surfers or objects in the water.
- Handle surfboards with care: Improper handling of surfboards can also lead to lacerations. Therefore, it is crucial to carry and handle your board with care to prevent accidents.
- Clean wounds promptly: In case of a laceration, it is essential to clean the wound promptly with clean water and mild soap. This helps prevent infections and promotes faster healing.
- Seek medical attention: If a laceration is deep or appears infected, it is crucial to seek medical attention for proper treatment and care.
By following these tips, surfers can significantly reduce the risk of lacerations while enjoying their sport. It is also important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while surfing to prevent other injuries.
HEAD, NECK, AND SHOULDER TRAUMA
In the world of surfing, injuries to the head, neck, and shoulders can occur in various forms, such as concussions, neck muscle strains and sprains, whiplash, and rotator cuff injuries. These injuries can range from minor bruises and cuts to severe conditions that may require medical attention.
As a surfer, it is essential to understand these risks and take necessary precautions to prevent serious injuries.
One of the most common injuries among surfers is head trauma, in the form of concussions. These can occur when surfers fall off their board or get hit by a wave, causing their head to make contact with the ocean floor. Rotator cuff injuries are also quite common among surfers, as they constantly use their arms to paddle and maneuver through the waves. These injuries can be caused by overuse or sudden impacts, leading to inflammation and pain in the shoulder joint.
Furthermore, neck strains and sprains are another common injury experienced by surfers. The constant twisting and turning of the neck while riding waves can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort and pain. In severe cases, surfers may even experience whiplash, which is caused by a sudden jerking motion of the head backward or forward.
EYE INJURY
Surfers are at a higher risk of eye injuries due to the delicate nature of their eyes and the potential dangers of the sport. Some common eye injuries that surfers may experience while riding the waves include pterygium, photokeratitis, dry eyes, and accidents involving surfboards.
Pterygium is a condition where membranes grow in the inner corner of the eye due to excessive exposure to UV rays. This can cause discomfort, redness, and even vision impairment if not treated promptly. To avoid pterygium, surfers should wear UV-blocking eyewear while surfing. Popular brands like Oakley, Speedo, and Aquasphere offer durable sunglasses with polarized lenses, which provide protection against intense levels of UV radiation.
Another common eye injury among surfers is photokeratitis, which is similar to getting a sunburn on the eyes. This condition can temporarily impair vision and cause discomfort if exposed to too much sunlight. Wearing sunglasses with polarized lenses can reduce the amount of sunlight entering the eyes, preventing photokeratitis.
Dry eyes are also a concern for surfers as prolonged exposure to sunlight, saltwater, and wind at the beach can cause irritation and hinder vision. To soothe dry eyes, surfers can use lubricating eye drops containing hyaluronic acid (HA), which not only moisturizes but also promotes healing of any abrasions on the eye surface.
Surfboard accidents can also result in eye injuries, ranging from minor bruises to more severe ones like black eyes that may take weeks to heal. To protect against surfboard impact and other hazards, surfers can wear protective goggles while surfing. Top brands like Oakley, Speedo, and Aquasphere offer durable and comfortable options for surfers to choose from.
THE TAKEAWAY: HOW TO AVOID SURF INJURIES
When hitting the waves, having a good time is not the only thing to focus on. Keeping yourself safe and free from injuries should also be a top priority. Among the common injuries that surfers face, eye injuries can range from minor discomforts to permanent damage.
As a surf safety expert, I have gathered some valuable tips to help prevent eye injuries while surfing.
Wear sunglasses that block UV rays
One of the most prevalent eye injuries among surfers is pterygium, also known as “surfer’s eye”. This condition involves tissue growth over the cornea and can lead to permanent vision impairment if left untreated.
To avoid this, ensure you wear sunglasses that provide protection against UV rays while out on the water.
Use polarized lenses for better vision
Surfers are often exposed to bright sunlight and glare from the water, which can result in photokeratitis, similar to getting sunburn on the eyes.
To prevent this, make sure your sunglasses have polarized lenses to reduce glare and improve clarity.
Keep your eyes lubricated
Continuous exposure to sunlight and saltwater can cause dry eyes, which can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of injury. Carry lubricating eye drops containing hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate your eyes.
Consider wearing protective goggles
Surfboards and other objects in the water can pose a threat for eye injuries.
Consider using protective goggles specifically designed for water sports to avoid any accidents.
Invest in high-quality eyewear
When buying sunglasses or goggles for surfing, it’s crucial to choose ones that are of high quality, have UV protection, and polarized lenses. Brands like South Cali and Oakley offer excellent options for sunglasses, while Speedo and Aquasphere have a range of swimming goggles suitable for surfing.
Also Read: What Is Goofy Foot Surfing?
Conclusion
In conclusion, while surfing may be an exhilarating sport, it also carries the potential for serious eye injuries. From cuts and scrapes caused by surfboards and sharp objects in the water to more severe conditions like pterygium and photokeratitis from UV exposure, surfers must be mindful of protecting their eyes.
But don’t worry, there are simple steps you can take to minimize these risks. Wearing protective gear, choosing safe surfing locations, and handling your surfboard with care are all essential precautions to take. And don’t forget about potential dangers from marine life – investing in high-quality eyewear can provide an extra layer of protection.
Remember, your eyes are precious and irreplaceable – so don’t let the thrill of surfing blind you to their importance. Before you hit those waves again, make sure to prioritize your safety and take necessary measures to safeguard your eyes.
