Observing the solar eclipse without adequate protection can cause irreparable damage

Observing the solar eclipse without proper protection can cause irreparable damage. This is confirmed by experts due to the expectation generated by the total solar eclipse that can be observed in its entirety on the 12th between Terres de l'Ebre, Camp de Tarragona and the south of Lleida. This is a rare astronomical event. The last eclipse that could be observed from here occurred in 1905.

According to Dr. Xavier Graell, head of the Ophthalmology Service at the SJD Sant Boi Hospital, during the minute and a half that the moon will completely cover the sun, you must be extremely cautious. "The fact that observing it with the naked eye does not cause pain gives the false sensation that it has no harmful effects, but in reality a burn is occurring," explains the doctor. The reality is that during the eclipse the decrease in ambient light causes the pupil to dilate, which allows a quantity of light energy to reach the retina that can cause irreparable damage or even permanent blindness.

If you want to observe this phenomenon, you must do so with adequate protection, which means using approved sunscreens (with ISO 12312-2 standard) or glasses approved by the European Community (CE) with an opacity index of 5 or higher. To ensure authenticity and have no doubts, it is best to purchase these glasses in pharmacies or opticians and, when purchasing them, check that they are in perfect condition, without scratches, perforations or other defects.

Eight recommendations to avoid eye injuries during the eclipse

Observing the eclipse involves following some measures that the ophthalmologist community has highlighted to avoid irreversible eye damage:

1. No to look without protection for even a second. The injuries can be very serious.
2. Conventional sunglasses no are safe to observe the eclipse. The difference with ISO certified glasses is thousands of times more protection.
3. No looking at the sun through binoculars, telescopes, cameras or mobile phones without an approved solar filter, even if certified glasses are worn.
4. No Do not use any homemade methods (X-rays, CDs, tinted windows or improvised filters), as they do not provide adequate protection.
5. Make brief observations (a few seconds), carefully, and rest your gaze before looking again.
6. It is advisable to remain still and, if possible, seated during the observation.
7. Do not remove your protective glasses while the eclipse is active.
8. Children must always be accompanied and supervised by adults. It is best for children under four years of age not to be exposed (especially since it cannot be guaranteed that they will keep their glasses on throughout the eclipse). In children and adolescents, the risk of eye injury may be higher, as the lens is more transparent and allows a greater amount of solar radiation to reach the retina.

Post-eclipse alarm symptoms

Observing the solar eclipse without adequate protection or with uncertified protection can lead to solar retinopathy. This is an injury to the retina, especially the central area called the macula, caused by looking directly at the sun or other sources of very intense light without adequate protection.

The first worrisome symptoms may appear hours or days after exposure. If you experience visual loss after the eclipse; a central dark spot is perceived in the vision; you have a distorted vision of straight lines or letters; If colors are altered or sensitivity to light or visual flashes appear, you should consult a specialist.