Ophthalmologist Dr. Jeffrey Dello Russo has been inundated with patient visits and calls following the solar eclipse on Monday. Approximately 25 patients have reported eye pain and damage after viewing the eclipse, with some admitting to not using protective glasses or using sunglasses instead.
According to Dello Russo, no children have been affected by the eclipse, but the main concern is solar retinopathy, which can cause color distortion and blindness. Staring at the eclipse can also cause minor damage like photokeratitis, which typically heals on its own.
In 2017, there were about 100 reported cases of total vision loss from looking at the eclipse without proper glasses. Dello Russo witnessed people viewing the eclipse without glasses during the 2024 event and warned about the risk of lasting damage. He advised anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
The American Astronomical Society has also cautioned the public about counterfeit eclipse glasses being sold online. Dello Russo stressed the importance of protecting one’s eyes and seeking medical attention if experiencing any symptoms related to viewing the eclipse.
As the excitement of a solar eclipse can lead to overlooking important safety precautions, it is crucial to prioritize eye protection to prevent permanent damage. Dello Russo’s clinic is working diligently to address any cases of eye pain and damage resulting from viewing the eclipse without proper protection.
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