If you have an upcoming eye doctor appointment, you may be wondering why you need your eyes dilated. Eye dilation is a common procedure that is used to help diagnose and treat various eye conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about eye dilations!

What does eye dilation do?

Eye dilation exams are a type of eye exam where your doctor will place drops in your eyes to widen (or dilate) your pupils. Dilating drops contain a substance called cycloplegic, which temporarily paralyzes the muscles in your eye. This allows your doctor to get a clear view of the back of your eye, as well as check for any potential problems.

Why do I need to get my eyes dilated?

Eye dilation exams are most effective when they are performed on a regular basis. For most people, this means having an exam at least once a year. However, if you have a history of eye problems or you are at an increased risk for certain conditions, your doctor may recommend that you have more frequent exams.

Having these exams done regularly is imperative for maintaining your eye health. These exams check for signs of disease or injury, assess how well your eyes are functioning, and evaluate the health of your retina and optic nerve. Additionally, eye dilation exams can check for changes in your vision and determine your need for glasses or contact lenses.

How do eye dilation exams work? 

Once your doctor has determined that you need an eye dilation exam, they will place drops in your eyes to widen your pupils. The drops usually take about 15 minutes to work, and you may feel a temporary burning or stinging sensation when they are first applied.

After your pupils have dilated, your doctor will use a special magnifying lens to examine the back of your eye. They will be looking for any signs of disease or injury, as well as changes in your vision. The exam usually takes about 30 minutes to complete.

If you have any questions about the exam, or if you experience any discomfort during the exam, be sure to let your doctor know. They will be happy to answer any of your questions and make sure that you are as comfortable as possible.

Can I drive home after getting my eyes dilated?

It is important to note that your vision may be blurred for a few hours after the exam, and you may be more sensitive  to light. Most doctors will recommend that you have someone drive you home after you have had your eyes dilated, as your vision may be too blurred to drive safely.

Who should avoid eye dilation exams?  

In general, eye dilation exams are safe for most people. However, there are some people who should avoid the procedure, including:

• People with narrow angles in their eyes (which can increase the risk of glaucoma)
• People with a history of allergies or reactions to dilating drops
• Children under the age of six (due to the risk of increased sensitivity to light)

Additionally, if you have any of the following conditions, you may not be able to have an eye dilation exam:

• Glaucoma
• Severe hypertension
• An acute heart condition
• A recent history of heart attack or stroke

If you have any questions or concerns about whether or not an eye dilation exam is right for you, be sure to speak with your doctor. They will be able to answer any of your questions and help you make the best decision for your health.

This blog post is intended to provide general information about eye dilations and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing changes in your vision, please see an ophthalmologist or other healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. And if you have any questions or concerns about eye dilations, please feel free to reach out to our team of experts at Johns Creek Eyecare. We are here to help!