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Eye Dilation

A truly comprehensive eye exam almost always includes eye dilationโ€”the addition of special eye drops that โ€œopen upโ€ the pupil at the front of the eyeball. This allows for a maximum amount of light to enter the eyeball, giving your eye doctor the best possible visibility during a variety of specific eye tests.
Eye dilation is common during an eye exam after preliminary testing of visual acuity, pressure testing, and any vision-correction measurements have been taken. Your eyes are dilated using special drops, by far the most effective way to examine the structures inside the eye, and the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye.
Most eyecare professionals agree: eye dilation is a critical component of a comprehensive eye exam, and vital to the detection of symptoms of eye disease like macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, cataracts and more.

Anything else I should know?

Having your eyes dilated doesnโ€™t hurtโ€”it just feels a little strange. Your pupil at the front of your eye automatically adjusts to light intensity, closing when light is more intense, and opening in lower lighting conditionsโ€”much like an automatic camera adjusts to take photos indoors or outdoors.
The drops used to dilate your eyes donโ€™t wear off immediately, thatโ€™s why itโ€™s recommended you bring sunwear with you to a comprehensive eye exam. And if youโ€™re driving, you may want to consider having a friend with you to help you drive home, or assist you if you feel slightly disoriented.
(Remember, your eyes wonโ€™t automatically adjust to changing light conditions until the drops wear off.)
Can I have an eye exam without having my eyes dilated?
In short, yes. Most vision screenings done at a pediatricianโ€™s office, health clinic or community health organizations donโ€™t include eye dilation. But these basic vision tests cannot help you diagnose eye disease, and are certainly no substitute for a regular and thorough eye exam from a qualified eyecare professional.
Most eye doctors will tell you with very few exceptions, dilated eyes mean the best possible eye exam environment.

 

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