Camilla Foster

Thousands of people watched a partial solar eclipse in the UK, but experts warned that viewing it without certified protective eyewear can damage the retina and macula, potentially causing solar retinopathy and permanent loss of central vision. Symptoms may be delayed for hours or days and can include blurred or distorted vision, dark spots, colour-vision changes, light sensitivity and reduced vision. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek prompt assessment from an optometrist. There is no specific treatment, although many cases heal over time; prolonged exposure increases the risk of lasting damage.