What happens to your eyes when you see sun with naked eyes?

Looking at the sun with naked eyes, especially for an extended period, can cause several harmful effects on your eyes. The sun emits intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage various structures within the eye, leading to temporary or permanent vision problems. Here are some of the effects of looking at the sun with naked eyes:

Photokeratitis: UV radiation from the sun can cause inflammation of the cornea, the clear outer layer of your eye. This condition, known as photokeratitis, is similar to a sunburn on the cornea. Symptoms include intense pain, redness, sensitivity to light, watering, and blurred vision. Photokeratitis usually resolves within a few days, but severe cases may require medical treatment.

Retinal damage: The sun's UV radiation can also damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This can cause changes in color perception, blurred vision, blind spots, and in extreme cases, permanent loss of vision.

Solar maculopathy: Prolonged or direct exposure to the sun's UV rays can lead to solar maculopathy, a condition that affects the macula, a small area in the center of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. Solar maculopathy can result in blurred central vision, decreased color perception, and visual distortions.

Cataracts: Over time, cumulative exposure to UV radiation from the sun can contribute to the development of cataracts. Cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision, decreased visual acuity, and impaired color perception.

It's important to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. You should also avoid looking directly at the sun, even during eclipses, as the sun's intensity can still damage your eyes even when it's partially covered. If you experience any sudden changes in vision or eye pain after looking at the sun, seek immediate medical attention.