On April 8, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America, passing through parts of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Vermont, New York, and Maine. Watching a partial eclipse outside the path of totality without proper eye protection can result in permanent damage including blurred and altered vision. It’s never safe to look at a solar eclipse. Depending on the time of the eclipse, even looking at it for a few seconds can damage the eye and the fovea.
When exposed to intense sunlight like during a solar eclipse, the cells in the retina can become damaged and cause long-term vision issues. Essentially, it’s like getting a sunburn on the most sensitive spot of the retina.
Even brief exposure lasting just a few seconds can cause solar retinopathy, resulting in mild to moderate loss of central vision. It can be permanent in some cases.
The astronomical society also recently warned of counterfeit “eclipse” glasses. It’s important also not to turn to regular sunglasses as an alternative. Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun. Smoked glass, unfiltered telescopes or magnifiers, and polarizing filters are also unsafe.
If you experience discomfort or vision problems following the eclipse, visit our office for an in-person, comprehensive eye exam. In the meantime, avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to your eyes. All symptoms should be treated as urgent until viewed by a doctor of optometry. It can take a few hours to a few days after viewing the solar eclipse to realize the damage that has occurred.
Some common symptoms of eye damage from an eclipse include:
- Loss of central vision
- Distorted vision (e.g., a straight line looks bent)
- Color changes
- Blurry vision
- Headache
- Increased sensitivity to light
Our Doctors recommend NOT watching an eclipse. When in doubt, play it safe, watch the eclipse from a tv broadcast or YouTube.
(909) 596-6756 LaVerne (909) 982-0100 Upland
www.drboyeroptometrist.com
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