If it’s been some time since you’ve had an eye test, the optometrist might suggest eye dilation at your next appointment. This is a standard part of eye care—even children as young as three years old can have their eyes dilated. Depending on your age and any conditions you may have, it could be essential to your ongoing eye health. Dilation is usually painless; if your eyes are sensitive, you may experience a little stinging from the eye drops, but it soon passes. If you’re anxious about it, here’s a guide to what dilation involves.

What Happens During Eye Dilation?

Your optometrist will place dilating eye drops into your eyes. It can take 20-30 minutes for your eyes to become fully dilated, although lighter-colored eyes tend to dilate faster. Once your eyes dilate, you may have blurry vision, light sensitivity, and trouble focusing, so avoid driving until the effects have worn off. They can last between four and six hours, but it varies depending on your eye and the drops used.

When Do You Have to Have Your Eyes Dilated?

Dilation is an essential part of healthy eye care. It allows an eye doctor to thoroughly examine the inside of your eye because the drops prevent pupils from contracting when they shine a light inside. Your doctor uses this process to explore vital parts of your eye—including the optic nerve, retina, and blood vessels—helping them see signs of the following:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Glaucoma
• Detached retina
• Cataracts
• Age-related eye conditions, including macular degeneration

How Often Should You Have Your Eyes Dilated?

The National Eye Institute recommends that you have your eyes dilated every one to two years if you’re over 60, if you’re an African American over 40, or if you have a family history of glaucoma. If you have diabetes, you should have an eye dilation exam every year, regardless of your age.

Eye Care Optical—the leading optical shop in Montgomery, OH, for over 40 years—is your one-stop-shop for eye care. Their independent optometrist and licensed opticians take care of your eye health, and the expert in-store technicians help you find the perfect glasses or contact lenses to suit your needs. From kids having their first eye exams to patients who come back year after year, everyone receives professional, individualized attention. Call (513) 731-6587 to schedule your next appointment, or explore their services online.