Many people put off a dilated eye exam simply because they are not sure what it involves. It is one of the most useful tests in all of eye care, and it is simple and painless. Here is what to expect.
Why dilation matters
The National Eye Institute (NEI) calls a dilated eye exam the best thing you can do for your eye health, because it is the only way to check for many eye diseases early, when they are easier to treat and before they cause vision loss. Many eye diseases have no warning signs, so even if your eyes feel fine, the exam is the only way to know for sure.
Who should go, and how often
NEI says how often depends on your risk. It recommends a dilated exam every 1 to 2 years if you:
- are over age 60
- are African American and over age 40
- have a family history of glaucoma
Most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need a dilated exam at least once a year. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
The steps of the exam
- Visual acuity test. Reading letters up close and far away.
- Visual field test. Checking your side vision without moving your eyes.
- Eye muscle test. Following a moving object with your eyes.
- Pupil response test. A small light checks how your pupils react.
- Tonometry. Measuring eye pressure with a quick puff of air or a gentle touch. NEI notes it does not hurt.
- Dilation. Drops widen your pupils so the doctor can see inside the eye, much like opening a door lets light into a dark room.
NEI explains that dilation helps the doctor check for common problems including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.
After the exam
For a few hours your vision may be blurry and you may be sensitive to light. NEI suggests asking a friend or family member to drive you home and bringing sunglasses; many offices also have disposable ones. If you need glasses or contacts to see more clearly, you may leave with a new prescription.
Plan ahead
Bring your current glasses, a list of your medications, and your family’s eye history. Schedule it on a day when you do not need to drive or read fine print for a few hours afterward.
A dilated exam takes a little time and a pair of sunglasses. In return, it can find problems years before you would notice them.
Source: Get a Dilated Eye Exam (National Eye Institute (NIH)). This article is an educational summary written by Khanna Vision Institute and is not a substitute for medical advice.