Summit Eye Center Blog
Solar Eclipse
The much anticipated solar eclipse is just a few days away! Here are some things you should know about the eclipse and how to protect your eyes when observing this celestial event.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes completely in front of the sun, and causes a period of darkness. Witnessing a celestial event such as a solar eclipse is a unique and fun experience for everyone, but safety should be of utmost importance!
Looking directly at the sun and viewing an eclipse, even for a few seconds without appropriate eye protection, can cause solar retinopathy. Solar retinopathy is a condition that results from UV light damage to the retina. The retina is the thin tissue in the back of the eye that captures light and sends a message to the brain in the form of electrical signals. Solar retinopathy causes permanent damage to the vision in varying degrees, and changes in vision can typically be noticed within hours of looking at the sun or eclipse. 1
In order to safely observe the solar eclipse, it is important to utilize the appropriate eye protection. Eclipse glasses are not regular sunglasses, appropriate eclipse glasses are much more protective and ought to comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.
Here is a comprehensive list of reputable brands and retailers of appropriate eclipse glasses.
If you notice any vision changes that do not improve within 24-48 hours following viewing the eclipse, schedule an appointment with your eyecare provider.
To learn more or schedule an appointment contact Summit Eye Center at 816-246-2111 or
This blog is authored by Taylor Oswald, ophthalmic assistant and University of Missouri Kansas City- Health Sciences Intern.
The much anticipated solar eclipse is just a few days away! Here are some things you should know about the eclipse and how to protect your eyes when observing this celestial event.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes completely in front of the sun, and causes a period of darkness. Witnessing a celestial event such as a solar eclipse is a unique and fun experience for everyone, but safety should be of utmost importance!
Looking directly at the sun and viewing an eclipse, even for a few seconds without appropriate eye protection, can cause solar retinopathy. Solar retinopathy is a condition that results from UV light damage to the retina. The retina is the thin tissue in the back of the eye that captures light and sends a message to the brain in the form of electrical signals. Solar retinopathy causes permanent damage to the vision in varying degrees, and changes in vision can typically be noticed within hours of looking at the sun or eclipse. 1
In order to safely observe the solar eclipse, it is important to utilize the appropriate eye protection. Eclipse glasses are not regular sunglasses, appropriate eclipse glasses are much more protective and ought to comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.
Here is a comprehensive list of reputable brands and retailers of appropriate eclipse glasses.
If you notice any vision changes that do not improve within 24-48 hours following viewing the eclipse, schedule an appointment with your eyecare provider.
To learn more or schedule an appointment contact Summit Eye Center at 816-246-2111 or
This blog is authored by Taylor Oswald, ophthalmic assistant and University of Missouri Kansas City- Health Sciences Intern.
