Why Do They Dilate the Eyes Before a Vision Test?

Vision tests and eye exams are an important part of keeping your eyes healthy. However, you may wonder why do doctors always dilate my eyes? They do this to help see your entire eye. Our doctors can help you keep your eyes in good condition with annual eye exams and vision tests. Schedule a consultation with Palm Beach Eye Center in Lake Worth or Delray Beach, FL to learn how eye dilation with vision tests can benefit you.

What is eye dilation?

Eye dilation is the process of using eye drops to dilate or widen your pupils, and allow more light to pass through. After the drops are put into your eye, the dilation takes about 30 minutes to complete. This gives your doctor a better view of the back of your eye, including your optic nerve and retina. This helps your eye doctor diagnose many common diseases and conditions as early as possible. Eye dilation is the most effective way to get a comprehensive examination of the back of your eye. If you are going in for vision tests, having your eyes dilated is a simple and virtually painless procedure. Contact Palm Beach Eye Center in Lake Worth or Delray Beach, FL today to learn more about how our expert team can help you with your vision needs.

What are the side effects of having your eyes dilated?

Having your eyes dilated can have a few potential side effects you should be aware of. This process may cause blurry vision, sensitivity to light, trouble focussing on objects, and stinging after the drops are put in. These side effects can make it difficult and even dangerous to drive or work. So, it is important to have someone with you to drive you home. The effects of having your eyes dilated last between 4 – 6 hours for most people.

Are there other options besides having your eyes dilated?

You can choose to have your eye exam done without pupil or eye dilation. However, this does not allow your doctor to have as much information. Also, being able to see your retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels can enable our experienced team to diagnose and treat eye disease before it can cause permanent damage.

What diseases can be diagnosed because of eye dilation?

Our expert team can diagnose multiple eye conditions with the help of eye dilation. Many of these diseases are not noticeable until they have caused irreparable damage. Some of these diseases include glaucoma, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. These diseases can wreak havoc on your eyes and all of the tissues around your eye.

Where can I get a vision test with eye dilation in Lake Worth, FL?

Having your eyes dilated allows our team to see the back of your eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels so that they can get a comprehensive exam of your ocular health. This allows them to see damage and help diagnose disease before it can cause irreparable damage to you and your sight. Contact Palm Beach Eye Center in Lake Worth or Delray Beach, FL for a full consultation on the overall state of your ocular health.