Safeguarding Your Vision: The Safe Way to Watch a Solar Eclipse

Mar 05, 2024

You're probably already familiar with the phenomenon of a solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon slides between the earth and the sun, temporarily obscuring our view of the sun, either partially or completely. This celestial event, lasting only a few minutes, leaves an enduring sense of awe. On April 8th, Oklahoma will be treated to a solar eclipse, with Ardmore and nearby areas witnessing a 95% eclipse around 1:45 pm.

The Solar Eclipse and Your Eyes

Ever wondered why you're advised not to look directly at a solar eclipse? We're here to explain! It's common knowledge that gazing at the sun on a regular day isn't great for your eyes. However, it might be surprising to learn that during a solar eclipse, the same harmful rays can be just as damaging, even if only a tiny fragment of the sun is visible. The exception is during a total solar eclipse. During those brief moments when the sun is completely covered (apart from its corona, which appears like a halo), it's safe to view the eclipse without protective eyewear.

The Hidden Risks of Solar Eclipses: Understanding Solar Retinopathy

Solar retinopathy is a serious, though often overlooked, risk associated with watching solar eclipses without proper eye protection. This condition occurs when the sun's intense light floods the retina, the part of the eye responsible for detecting light and sending signals to the brain.

Signs and Symptoms of Solar Retinopathy:

Loss of Visual Acuity: Difficulty in seeing fine details, possibly accompanied by a central blind spot.
Altered Color Vision: Colors may appear faded or distorted.
Increased Light Sensitivity: You might find bright light uncomfortable or even painful.
Pain or Discomfort in the Eyes: A feeling of pressure or discomfort in the eyes, although this is less common.

These symptoms might not be immediate and can develop over hours or days following exposure. The damage can be temporary or permanent, depending on the duration and intensity of exposure.

How to Safely Experience a Solar Eclipse

Experiencing a solar eclipse can be a magical and educational experience if done safely. Here’s how you can enjoy it without risking your vision:

Specialized Solar Eclipse Glasses: ISO-certified solar viewing glasses are designed to safely filter out harmful solar radiation. Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not adequate.
Pinhole Cameras: This DIY method involves projecting the sun’s image through a pinhole onto a flat surface, allowing you to view the eclipse indirectly.
Telescope or Binoculars with Solar Filters: If using these devices, ensure they are equipped with solar filters. Never attempt to view the sun through any optical device without proper filtration.
Avoid Improvised Filters: Materials like CDs, smoked glass, or film negatives are not safe for viewing the sun.
Educate and Supervise Children: Ensure that children understand the importance of never looking directly at the sun and that they use eclipse glasses correctly.

Your eyes are irreplaceable, and their care should be a priority. If you notice any symptoms of eye discomfort or vision changes after viewing a solar eclipse, it’s crucial to seek medical attention from your optometrist. Stay tuned to our blog for more eye health tips and insights, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns about your eye health. Call us at 580-223-7333 or use our online scheduler to schedule an exam.

Schedule an Appointment Today

< Older Post Newer Post >

A young boy is getting his eyes checked by an optometrist

Clear Vision Ahead: The Importance of Eye Exams for Kids

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 07 May, 2024

Whether your child is just starting preschool or already making strides in elementary school and beyond, ensuring they have proper vision care is key to their growth and learning.

A close up of a person 's brown eye with keratoconus

Living with Keratoconus: Understanding Symptoms and Solutions

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 23 Apr, 2024

Keratoconus is a condition where the typically round cornea becomes thinner and takes on a cone shape. This alteration in form affects how light is directed onto the retina, leading to blurred and distorted vision.

A man wearing glasses is rubbing his eyes with his hands while sitting in front of a computer

Seasonal Eye Allergies: Understanding Symptoms and Finding Relief

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 10 Apr, 2024

It’s spring in Oklahoma, and for many of us, that signals the start of warmer days, blossoming flowers, and unfortunately, the onset of seasonal allergies. These allergies, while common, can transform the beauty of seasonal changes into a period of discomfort and irritation.

a man wearing a hard hat and safety glasses is leaning on a piece of wood .

Eyes at Work: Ensuring Your Vision Stays Protected on the Job

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 21 Mar, 2024

Protecting your eyes isn’t just about preventing disease or infection. Did you know almost 2,000 people injure their eyes daily while at work? Workplace eye wellness and safety is an often overlooked but important part of eye health preservation. In fact, the Prevent Blindness organization has declared the entire month of March Workplace Eye Wellness Month to help provide awareness to both employers and employees alike.

What you need to know about Age-Related Macular Degeneration

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 20 Feb, 2024

AMD is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss for people over 50. It is a progressive disease that causes damage to the macula, an area at the center of your retina, that is key to your central vision.

Could I Be Color Blind?

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 06 Feb, 2024

Have you ever had friends or family raise an eyebrow at your distinct taste in color combinations and patterns? While we all have our own sense of style, your unique choices might not just be a fashion statement. It's possible that color blindness is adding an unexpected twist to your wardrobe decisions. So, it might not be just about fashion after all!

a woman is putting a contact lens in her eye .

Clear Vision, Clear Rules: The Essential Do's and Don'ts of Contact Lens Wear

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 23 Jan, 2024

Proper contact lens wear and care is essential for maintaining eye health and ensuring the longevity of your lenses. Here are a few of the most common mistakes made by contact lens wearers and safer alternatives to keep your eyes healthy.

a woman is getting her eyes examined by an ophthalmologist .

Understanding Glaucoma

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 10 Jan, 2024

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the United States. It is a chronic, progressive eye disease caused by damage to the optic nerve. It is estimated that 3 million Americans have glaucoma, but only 50% have been diagnosed and are being treated.

Why Does My Eye Twitch?

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 19 Dec, 2023

An eye twitch, medically known as myokymia, is an involuntary spasm or tremor of the muscles surrounding the eye, particularly the eyelid.Let's dive into the science behind eye twitches and explore the reasons behind them.

Eye Safety for the Holidays-Choosing Toys and Tech with Vision in Mind

By Blake Bush Family Eye Care • 05 Dec, 2023

In our quest to gift the perfect toys during the holiday season, we often overlook the safety aspects associated with them. See our guide for selecting eye-safe toys.