Can Viewing A Solar Eclipse Cause Any Damage To The Eye?

Posted on Sat, 26 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 26 Aug 2017 Answered on

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I am concerned about my left eye after being exposed to solar eclipse on Mon.21. I am seeing bright flashes in the corner of my eye. No headaches or pain.

I have no blurred vision

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Retinal tear should be looked for

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

Viewing a solar eclipse doesn't cause any damage to the eye directly.

The bright flashes need to be investigated.

These symptoms affecting the peripheral retina indicate a retinal tear. Indirect ophthalmoscopy by an ophthalmologist is required to rule out or confirm the suspicion. Prophylactic laser treatment can prevent further progression.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Let me know if you have any query

Please consult your doctor/ophthalmologist before deciding on any further course of action.

For future follow up / correspondence you may ask me directly at the link given below

http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=68107

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar