July 2019 Newsletter

Happy 4th July!

Americans spend hundreds of millions of dollars annually on consumer fireworks, which cause more than 9,000 injuries a year. With the Fourth of July holiday just days away, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is reminding the public that fireworks are not toys but incendiary devices that can cause devastating eye injuries.

Do Not Let Children Play with Fireworks

Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July, but there are precautions parents can take to prevent these injuries. The best defense against kids suffering severe eye injuries and burns is to teach safety around fireworks.

These Six Steps Can Help Save Your Child's Sight

If an accident does occur, minimize the damage to the eye. In the event of an eye emergency:

Do not rub the eye. Rubbing the eye may increase bleeding or make the injury worse.
In case of chemical exposure, rinse the eye copiously with water to flush the eye for 15 minutes.
Do not apply pressure to the eye itself. Holding or taping a foam cup or the bottom of a juice carton to the eye are just two tips. Protecting the eye from further contact with any item, including the child's hand, is the goal.
Do not stop for medicine! Over-the-counter pain relievers will not do much to relieve pain. Aspirin (should never be given to children) and ibuprofen can thin the blood, increasing bleeding. Take the child to the emergency room at once - this is more important than stopping for a pain reliever.
Do not apply ointment. Ointment, which may not be sterile, makes the area around the eye slippery and harder for the doctor to examine.
Do not let your child play with fireworks, even if his/her friends are setting them off. Sparklers burn at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, and bottle rockets can stray off course or throw shrapnel when they explode.

UV Safety

Our offices can help you have your day in the sun and do it safely. We offer quality sunglasses – both prescription and non-prescription – that meet the highest standards for sun protection. We offer them in styles to suit everyone, from infants through adults. Call us for an appointment today.