Regular eye exams are an important way of monitoring the health of your eyes.  An essential component of any thorough eye exam is a pupil dilation test.

Pupil dilation makes it difficult to focus up close and produces some light sensitivity for approximately 2-4 hours.   However, pupil dilation is a critical part of an eye exam because it gives eye doctors a view of the peripheral aspects of the back of the eye.  It also allows an improved view of the lens, optic nerve and blood vessels.

Reasons for administering pupil dilation tests 

Pupil dilation can reveal any problems with the eye and can also reveal evidence of general health issues.

Here are just a few of the diseases and conditions that can be diagnosed with the help of pupil dilation: 

• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Glaucoma
• Macular degeneration
• Retinal detachment
• Cataracts
• Infectious diseases
• Vasculitis

Performing pupil dilation tests

To begin the test, the doctor will place dilating drops in your eye. The drops take about 20-30 minutes to take effect. When pupils are completely dilated, the doctor will shine a light in your eye. Normally the pupil would contract, but the drops allow the pupil to stay open so the internal structures can be viewed.

If you are having trouble with your vision, be sure to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.