Many Google queries

Google: Increase in search queries for eclipse

Passengers on the plane also observed the rare phenomenon in the sky.(Bild: AFP)

On Monday evening, people in North America were able to experience a rare natural spectacle, namely a total solar eclipse. As we all know, you shouldn't watch this without special glasses, but according to Google, many people apparently did anyway.

North America spent days preparing for the solar eclipse on Monday. Millions of people watched the natural spectacle. Some schools even remained closed.

The purchase of special glasses was on the to-do list in advance. But not everyone seems to have got hold of one.

Passengers on the plane also observed the rare phenomenon in the sky.(Bild: AFP)

(Bild: AFP)

"Why do my eyes hurt?"
Because after the spectacle in the sky, a special query pops up on Google: "Why do my eyes hurt?" Excess light burns the retina. This is a sunburn on a very sensitive area.

Even brief viewing of a solar eclipse can cause such damage. Symptoms that can occur are visual disturbances such as blurred vision, sensitivity to light or dark spots. Headaches may also occur. In severe cases, there is even a risk of blindness.

US ophthalmologist Avnish Deobhakta reassures in "Time": "In most cases, headaches and eye pain should pass within a few hours of the eclipse. Especially if you have worn protective glasses as prescribed."