Diagnostic Testing: Dilation
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DILATION
Frequently, as part of an eye exam, your eye care provider will dilate your pupils in order to get a better view of the inside of your eye. Your pupil is like a window, letting light in. By enlarging the pupil via dilation, more light will enter the eye, helping your doctor examine the optic nerve and the retina. This allows your doctor to spot signs of possible problems at their earliest stages.
The doctor or staff will insert eye drops, and then you will wait about 20-30 minutes for the pupil to dilate completely. Your pupils will then stay dilated for 2 to 4 hours. Your eyes might feel a little uncomfortable, and they will be sensitive to light. Be sure to bring a pair of sunglasses with you, if possible. You may also experience blurry near vision and have trouble reading, so try to avoid activities on the computer for a few hours afterwards. Otherwise, you can resume normal activities.
Many patients feel comfortable driving after dilation. If you are worried, bring someone with you to the appointment to drive you home - or feel free to wait at the office until the dilation effects have worn off. Let us know if you have any questions about dilation. Our staff is happy to help!
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