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

Posted on Wed, 23 Aug 2017

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

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 Answered on

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I glanced at the eclipse yesterday without eyewear. Stupid, I know. I have no vision problems today, but I have had a mild headache I can't shake. I also woke with loose stools and nausea. I had felt better as the day progressed, but after eating am feeling nauseous again. How do I know if this is reaction to the sun or just an ill timed bug?

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Seems unrelated to the viewing of solar eclipse with naked eyes.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. Since you do not have any problems with your vision I do not think that you need to worry. The other symptoms could be due to a minor gastrointestinal infection, possibly viral. I would insist you to take ORS (oral rehydration solution) to regain a fluid water balance, acetaminophen to relieve your headache and malaise, omeprazole to relieve the gastritis component and, if needed, some antiemetic like meclizine (all available OTC). I hope that will resolve the problem.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana