Eclipse Eye Safety: Tips to Protect Your Retinas During a Solar Eclipse
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over multiple states, such as Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, Maine, and more. A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the sun. If you live in any of these areas, you won’t want to miss this special phenomenon.
However, there are safety guidelines to consider when viewing solar eclipses. If you don’t follow them, you can potentially damage your retinas and vision permanently. Let’s discuss what you need to know about keeping your eyes safe during the upcoming solar eclipse.
How Does a Solar Eclipse Cause Retinal Damage?
Viewing the sun with the naked eye can actually burn your retina. This condition is called solar retinopathy or “eclipse blindness,” and it can cause temporary or permanent vision loss. Because the retinas don’t have pain receptors, you won’t know immediately if you’ve experienced eclipse blindness. Symptoms usually appear about 12 hours after the incident occurs and include:
- Blurred vision
- Blind spots
- Altered color vision
- Visual distortion
- Micropsia
- Frontotemporal headache
You can avoid solar retinopathy by purchasing special eclipse glasses before the event. If you suspect you have this condition after viewing the eclipse, consult a retina specialist as soon as possible.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family During the Eclipse
Eclipse glasses can help keep your eyes safe — but these aren’t just any regular sunglasses. Make sure yours, as well as any binoculars or telescopes you use, are ISO 12312-2 compliant. These solar filters not only reduce visible sunlight but also block UV and IR radiation.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind:
- Protect your eyes for the entirety of a partial eclipse.
- If you’re in the path of totality, only remove your eclipse glasses when the sun is completely blocked.
- Don’t use old or damaged eclipse glasses.
- Don’t let kids watch the eclipse alone.
Beware of counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses. The American Astronomical Society has a list of reputable suppliers of solar eclipse glasses and filters.
Enjoy the Upcoming Solar Eclipse Safely
Solar eclipses are an amazing phenomenon to experience, but damaging your vision is anything but. If you follow the safety guidelines properly, you shouldn’t have any issues. At Retina Consultants of Texas, our expert team is here to answer your questions about eye safety and examine your eyes if you have any concerns. For more information, contact us today.
