The optic nerve can be seen through an undilated pupil, but for optimum viewing a dilated pupil is required. This is important for the diagnosis of glaucoma , as well as other diseases of the optic nerve. Learn about what to expect during a glaucoma eye exam. Two very common retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration AMD , are diagnosed and monitored by examining the retina through a dilated pupil.
Learn about what to expect during a macular degeneration eye exam. In addition to macular degeneration and glaucoma, there are many other conditions that require pupil dilation, such as detection of a retinal tear or detachment, or an ocular tumor, just to name a few. As part of a comprehensive eye examination, pupil dilation is very important at revealing the status of your optic nerve and retina, and is critical to preventing and treating eye conditions that could potentially lead to vision loss.
Yvonne Ou, MD, is a board certified ophthalmologist who specializes in glaucoma, including medical, laser and surgical therapies; cataract evaluation and treatment including combined cataract and glaucoma surgery; glaucoma filtering and implant surgery; and newer procedures.
Back to Expert Advice. Expert Advice. The Undilated Eye Exam One of the first parts of a comprehensive eye exam is a test of your vision, and perhaps a measurement to determine an eyeglass prescription, both of which require that your eyes remain undilated.
The Dilated Eye Exam The view to the back of the eye is limited when the pupil is not dilated. Glaucoma The optic nerve can be seen through an undilated pupil, but for optimum viewing a dilated pupil is required.
Macular Degeneration Two very common retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration AMD , are diagnosed and monitored by examining the retina through a dilated pupil. Other Conditions In addition to macular degeneration and glaucoma, there are many other conditions that require pupil dilation, such as detection of a retinal tear or detachment, or an ocular tumor, just to name a few.
The National Eye Institute generally recommends that starting at age 60 everyone should have an annual, comprehensive, dilated eye examination. If you are African-American, the recommended age of having a dilated eye exam is 40 years old, because of the higher risk of glaucoma.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has specific recommendations for diabetic patients. This allows the optometrist to better view tissues at the back of the eye and to determine if there is any disease, injury or other condition affecting the optic nerve, retina or macula.
The National Eye Institute NEI points out the importance of having your eyes dilated during your comprehensive eye exam. While you may assume your eyes are healthy, the only way to know for sure is to undergo a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilating your eyes.
Many eye diseases and other conditions affecting the eyes have little to no early symptoms. Undergoing an eye exam that includes dilating the eyes allows your Jewell Eye Inc. When you have your eyes dilated, your eyes may burn or sting momentarily. More importantly, you likely experience greater sensitivity to light as well as blurry vision for up to a few hours after eye dilation.
Take someone with you to your exam so that you do not have to drive home after having your eyes dilated. Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised.
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This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Eye dilation: Necessary with every eye exam? Products and services. Is it necessary to have my eyes dilated during every eye exam?
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