If you’ve been following the guideline to have regular eye exams, then you’re probably familiar with having your pupils dilated. But why do doctors dilate eyes?
By dilating your pupils, the eye doctor can get a better view of your inner eye structures, making the eye exam more comprehensive and detailed. While the back of your eye can be seen through an undilated pupil, it cannot be examined as fully.
A full evaluation of your macula, retina, and optic nerve is possible through dilated pupils. These areas are key when identifying common eye diseases like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Additionally, health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can often be detected through changes in these eye structures.
What Happens When the Eye Doctor Dilates Your Pupils?
Your eye doctor or a technician will insert dilating eye drops into your eyes. It typically takes 20 to 30 minutes for the drops to take full effect. Once they work, your eye doctor will use a lighted microscope to inspect your eyes.
Initially, you may feel a slight stinging when the drops are first inserted, but the discomfort is usually minor and short-lived. For a few hours afterward, your dilated eyes will be extra-sensitive to light, and your vision may be slightly blurred. Wearing sunglasses can help manage this sensitivity. Dilation typically wears off within four to six hours.
Why is Eye Dilation Important?
Even though getting your pupils dilated for an eye exam may feel like a nuisance, it allows your eye doctor to check your ocular health and overall body health with much more accuracy. So, while dilated eyes may be temporarily uncomfortable, the benefits far outweigh the minor inconvenience.
By undergoing the eye dilation process, you ensure that any underlying eye diseases or health conditions are caught early and addressed appropriately.
If you’re due for an eye exam, contact an expert eye doctor near you to schedule your appointment.
At Eyes On Group, we prioritize your vision health. Schedule an eye exam with us today to maintain healthy eyes!