Moorfields Eye Hospital surgeon gives tips on staying safe during the solar eclipse

A Moorfields Eye Hospital consultant ophthalmic surgeon has encouraged those planning to watch the solar eclipse on Wednesday to look after their eye health by using special glasses or adopting indirect viewing methods.

On the evening of 12 August, a partial solar eclipse will be visible in the UK and Ireland, with the moon covering more than 90% of the sun.

Alex Ionides, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital and Moorfields Private, shared that it is a common misconception that a solar eclipse makes it safe to look at the sun.

“In reality, even during an eclipse the sun remains bright enough to damage the delicate tissues of the eye,” he said.

Moorfields Eye Hospital

Alex Ionides, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital and Moorfields Private

Ionides highlighted that solar retinopathy – where ultraviolet radiation damages retinal cells – can occur over a short period of exposure.

“The damage may not be painful, so people often do not realise there is a problem until hours later,” he said.

Symptoms of solar retinopathy include blurred vision, distorted vision, reduced colour perception, difficulty reading, or a dark spot in the centre of vision.

“In some cases, the effects improve over time, but permanent vision loss can occur in some cases,” he said.

He highlighted that specific solar viewing glasses should be used to view the eclipse, adding that sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection.

“If you wish to observe the eclipse, only use specially designed solar viewing glasses. These can be bought cheaply online, but check they are from a reputable supplier and meet recognised international safety standards,” Ionides emphasised.

Alternatively, indirect viewing methods can be used to observe the sun – such as pinhole projectors. The Royal Observatory Greenwich will also be live-streaming the event from 6.10pm on Wednesday 12 August.

The damage may not be painful, so people often do not realise there is a problem until hours later

Ionides shared that if patients develop eye pain, redness, grittiness or irritation, blurred vision, distorted vision, new dark spots in their vision or sudden changes in their vision after looking at the sun, they should seek urgent medical attention.

“Prompt assessment can help identify the cause of symptoms and ensure appropriate treatment or monitoring,” he said.

Boots Opticians director of optical practice, Kyla Black, noted that families should be mindful of young children during the eclipse.

“Parents should be particularly careful if they are going to let their children view the eclipse and ensure they supervise them closely,” she said.

The optometrist also highlighted the importance of using the appropriate equipment when viewing the eclipse through devices, such as cameras and telescopes.

“Budding astronomers who will be looking through cameras, binoculars or telescopes at the eclipse must make sure they have approved solar filters attached. If you’re not sure your telescope does, then contact the maker of the product to ensure you know you’ll be safe,” she said.

She added that the solar eclipse is an opportunity to appreciate how important eyesight is.

“Taking a few simple precautions will help ensure you can enjoy the incredible event safely,” she said.