Solar eclipse: How to tell if your eyes have been damaged

Millions worldwide observed the recent solar eclipse, with the majority adhering to recommendations to use special protective glasses to shield their retinas from heat damage. The sun's rays, concentrated by the eye's lens during an eclipse, can harm the light-sensitive retinal cells. Since the retina lacks pain receptors, damage may not be immediately apparent, sometimes appearing hours or even the next day.

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This spot or blurred vision will not disappear – no matter where you turn or look.

Eye care professionals explain that potential damage might be noticed as blurred central vision or a blind spot in the field of sharpest sight. This blur or spot does not disappear regardless of where one looks. In severe cases, a portion of the central visual field can be lost, making it difficult to read letters. This type of damage may appear immediately, not hours later, which is considered a positive aspect of an otherwise negative situation.

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This can go so far that the image in the center of the field of vision, where visual acuity is actually highest, completely disappears. So a part of the image is missing. If this part is large enough, it can even be that letters can no longer be identified when reading.

Other symptoms, which may emerge hours later or the following morning, include faded or altered color perception and an increased sensitivity to bright light. Straight lines may appear wavy or bent. These "accompanying symptoms," as described by an eye doctor, can result from edema or inflammation following minor retinal damage. While some of these changes might resolve on their own, seeking professional medical attention is advised for any such complaints.

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That's the good news in the bad news.