Current Events: Can a Solar Eclipse Really Blind You?

        Though many have not seen a solar eclipse, it is said that it's dangerous to see it with the naked eye. This statement is true, however it is also said that staring at a solar eclipse can blind you. This statement, is false. When watching a solar eclipse, the damage you can do to your eyes is often painless, so people won't even realize they're injuring themselves which can leave a long-term effect without blinding you. 
        This condition is called solar retinopathy. Solar retinopathy is usually caused by the staring at the sun, regardless of the phase, but people can stare at the sun for so long without pain and this happens occasionally. "But during a solar eclipse, more people are at risk. With the sun partially covered, it's comfortable to stare, and protective reflexes like blinking and pupil contraction are a lot less likely to kick in than on a normal day". 

       Scientists do not have a good aim on the currency of eye damage after a solar eclipse. But in one of the studies that were conducted in the year 1999, after a solar eclipse in Europe, forty-five patience with possible solar retinopathy came to an eye clinic after viewing the eclipse. Forty were confirmed to have some kind of damage or symptoms and five had visible changes in the eye. Twenty of the patients also reported eye pain while the other twenty reported problems with vision.

        Research has also shown that while many of the damage may heal, some may be permanent. So while it might be tough to go completely blind by looking at a eclipse, doing it without the right protections could leave a long-lasting injury on one's vision. "The only safe way to view an eclipse, according to NASA, is to use specially designed sun filters, often available at telescope stores, or to wear No. 14 welder's glasses, available at welding specialty stores. 

  This information is very helpful to me. Though I have never seen a solar eclipse before, I have always thought that you could go blind if staring at one with the naked eye. This will also help if I ever see a solar eclipse, because then I will know what to do in order to keep away from damage to my eyes. This information can also help others in order to keep them away from damaging their own eyes as well, and if they suspect something, they can get it checked by a doctor.


Sources:
http://www.livescience.com/20433-solar-eclipse-blind.html
http://www.hoydalsvik.net/astrofoto/eclipse2008/index.html
http://eye-make-up.tumblr.com/colours