Today is the big one – the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse! As a neurosurgeon, I spend my days operating on the most complex organ: the brain. But even the brain is no match for the sun’s unfiltered power during an eclipse.
The sun’s rays, even during an eclipse, are strong enough to fry your retinas like an overdone egg! The sun’s rays are incredibly intense, and that doesn’t change during a solar eclipse. The invisible rays from the sun, (Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) Radiation) are the culprits behind eye damage. Unlike visible light, they aren’t filtered out by the darkness of the eclipse. Focusing the sun’s rays onto your retina is like focusing a magnifying glass on your skin. This intense heat can burn and permanently damage the light-sensitive cells in your retina, leading to vision problems.
The retina doesn’t have pain receptors, so you won’t feel discomfort while looking at the sun. The damage can occur without you realizing it, and symptoms like blurred vision or blind spots might not appear until hours later. Even a partially covered sun during an eclipse is dangerous. As long as some of the sun’s surface is visible, it’s emitting harmful UV and IR rays.
Regular sunglasses are like using a colander to strain spaghetti – they won’t protect your eyes. So, to enjoy the eclipse safely, it’s important to use ISO-certified eclipse glasses.
Let’s witness this cosmic wonder safely! Who’s excited?
P.S. Feel free to share your eclipse pictures in the comments! (Just make sure they’re taken through the proper filter )
Dr. Darakchiev is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 631-690-9080.
