If you’ve never had your eyes examined by an eye doctor in Cincinnati OH, then you may not have experienced eye dilation in the past. Eye dilation can affect the way your eyes feel, and can affect your perception until the drops wear off. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for your upcoming eye appointment.

Why Does Your Eye Doctor Dilate Your Eyes?

The eye doctor dilates your eyes because it allows him or her to see to the back of your eyes. This will enable the eye doctor to evaluate your optic nerve and retina, and check for conditions like glaucoma.

How Long Does Eye Dilation Last?

Eye dilation lasts about 4 to 6 hours, though the effects start to wear off within an hour of being dilated. Although there used to be an eye drop that would reverse the effects of eye dilation, that medication is no longer available.

What’s It Like When Your Eyes Are Dilated?

When your eyes are dilated, you may have a hard time reading text close to your face, and you may have a hard time focusing on nearby objects. You may experience a feeling of “tightness” in your eyes.

Finally, your eyes will be very sensitive to light. This can make going home after your appointment uncomfortable or difficult. Bring sunglasses. You may need someone to drive you home.

Will My Eyes Be Dilated With Every Eye Exam?

Dilation doesn’t happen with every eye exam in Cincinnati OH. Your eye doctor may not need to check for glaucoma and other conditions with each eye exam; this will depend on your risk factors. Your eye doctor can let you know if you’re going to need your eyes dilated when you make your appointment.

Need an eye exam? Call OIC Integrative Optometry to make an appointment.