Monday’s solar eclipse had everyone’s eyes on the skies, but if you weren’t wearing the proper protective gear, you may need to get your eyes checked.
According to Google Trends, there was a noticeable spike in people asking about eye damage after the eclipse.
The University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry said it received several calls requesting last-minute vision test appointments after Monday’s astronomical phenomenon.
Dr Sarah McIver, clinical associate professor at the school, said staring into the sun was never a good idea. It’s even more dangerous during a solar eclipse.
“When it gets dark outside, the eye dilates and loses its natural contraction. So more light rays are coming in, making it more likely that damage will occur in the front of the eye or the back of the eye.” she explained.
eye damage
Macbar said “eye sunburn” is easy to diagnose.
“If you notice any discomfort, redness, irritation, photosensitivity, etc.,” she explains, adding that it usually resolves or goes away on its own when patients use artificial tears.
However, more serious damage can occur at the back of the eye.
“UV radiation can damage the photoreceptor layer of the retina, which converts all light into visual information in the brain,” says Macbar.
If you notice a decrease in your vision, she recommends seeing your eye doctor right away for a retinal scan.
“Once retinal imaging is complete, we can observe it in real time and immediately identify any damage,” she said.
The School of Optometry offers same-day appointments if you are concerned about eye damage after a solar eclipse.
In most cases, it becomes noticeable within a few days of exposure to sunlight.
Although retinal damage can lead to permanent vision loss, complete blindness is unlikely, experts say.
wear appropriate glasses
Makbar said if you wear the right glasses during the eclipse, glasses that meet safety standards and are purchased from a reputable retailer, you should be protected.
Appropriate glasses will be marked ISO 12312 – 2, indicating that they are equipped with appropriate filters to protect your eyes.
Kitchener resident Bernard Carrara went to optometry school Wednesday for his annual vision test. He said he and his family watched the eclipse just south of London wearing appropriate glasses.
“It was awesome, especially with the coronavirus. We were in an area where we could see a total solar eclipse,” he said.
Carrara added that he is grateful that 20/20 can still be seen.
“There were no problems,” he said. “We knew the rules.”
