Eye care experts warn signs of potential eye damage after looking at the solar eclipse
It's been widely reported by now that Monday's total solar eclipse could cause eye damage to people who viewed it without proper protection.
And if history is any indication, many have likely already looked right into the celestial phenomenon without taking the proper precautions, which can lead to severe, permanent damage to their eyes.
RELATED: Solar eclipse 2017
So how can you tell if you're a victim from Monday?
According to the Miami Herald, some experts speculate it could take up to several days for people to experience symptoms of potential eye damage. However, earlier signs could range from "dim" sight to after images and even solar keratitis, which is similar to sunburn of the cornea and can cause and eye pain.
Over time, victims have been known to experience loss of vision in one or both eyes, distorted vision, altered color vision, and a condition known as solar retinopathy, which occurs when the sun burns a hole into the retinal tissues and can lead to loss of central vision. These symptoms can sometimes occur immediately after exposure to the sun or several weeks later.
SEE ALSO: When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S.?
Millions from Oregon to South Carolina faced dangers of eye damage when the moon blocked out part of the sun for up to three hours, the American Optometric Association said, as the sun's light was only blocked for roughly three minutes.
The association advises people who viewed the total solar eclipse without glasses to visit a local eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination immediately, even if you're not experiencing discomfort yet as there can be a delayed response to damaged incurred during an eclipse.
