Can I Be Blinded By A Nerf® Gun?

In the classic movie, A Christmas Story, all little Ralphie Parker wanted was a BB gun for Christmas. "You'll shoot your eye out, kid," was the oft-repeated response. And for good reason! A study published in Pediatrics found that between 1990-2016, more than 360,000 records of children were harmed with BB guns and other "non-powder firearms." But did you know that even Nerf® guns have been shown to cause eye injuries in some cases?

Nerf Guns and Eye Injuries

An article published in the medical journal BMJ Case Reports had eye care professionals warning that they were seeing many cases of eye injury caused by Nerf guns and similar projectile toys. In all documented cases, patients experienced fuzzy vision and pain, internal bleeding of the eye, and swelling. All eventually regained comfortable, clear vision, but only after prompt intervention from an optometrist or other eye care professional.

Preventing Eye Injuries From Nerf Darts

Hasbro, the manufacturer of Nerf guns, stresses that all its products have been thoroughly tested and approved. When used correctly, Nerf products are safe. Here are tips for safe use:

• Follow the age recommendations. These products are meant for children ages 8 and up.
• Aim below the face. Nerf guns should never be aimed directly at the face, especially at close range.
• Stick to branded darts. Generic replacements may be made of harder materials, making them more likely to cause eye injury on impact.
• Do not modify your Nerf gun. Modifications can increase the risk of injury.
• Wear protective eyewear. Our eye doctors recommend safety glasses or goggles when taking part in activities with fast-moving projectiles or other moving objects.

Emergency Eye Care After a Nerf Injury

If your child experiences pain, blurry vision, double vision, or sees black spots or starbursts after being hit in the eye, seek immediate assistance. Give us a call at St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville at (740) 695-0444.