If you have kids who play sports like basketball, soccer and baseball, did you know these sports have a high risk of eye injury?

April is Sports Eye Safety Month, which is a great time to discuss preventing eye injuries. According to the National Eye Institute, they are the leading cause of blindness in children in the United States, and most are sports-related. The NEI estimates sports-related eye injuries result in more than 100,000 visits to the doctor every year.

These injuries include fractured eye sockets, scratched corneas and foreign objects puncturing the eye. How do these injuries occur? Pitchers throw at high speeds; basketballs fly through the air, and tackles result in fingers and elbows hitting the face.

The good news is that using protective eyewear can prevent 90 percent of these injuries, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Protective eyewear includes goggles and eye guards.

Most children’s leagues and school teams don’t require athletes to wear protective eyewear, but parents and coaches should consider providing eyewear to protect their players’ eyes.

When searching for eyewear, the NEI recommends purchasing ones made of ultra-strong polycarbonate, an impact-resistant material that does not blur vision. Athletes who wear contacts or glasses can purchase eyewear made of this material that matches their prescription. Make the purchase at a vision store, where experts can recommend the right fit for your child’s sport.

If a sports-related eye injury does occurs, visit an ophthalmologist as soon as possible so he or she can examine the eye and ensure there is no permanent damage.