Why do I have to get my eyes dilated?
To dilate your eyes, your doctor will administer eye drops that will widen the black dot in the center of your eye – the pupil. This allows more light into the eye, so the doctor can get a good look and can check for issues such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. Your doctor will check your eyes for any signs of issues caused by health problems; high blood pressure and diabetes are two examples of health issues that can cause serious eye conditions.
Do I have to get them dilated each time I go in for an exam?
Of course, you should discuss with your doctor if you need to have your eyes dilated and follow his or her advice. There are some factors your doctor will take into account:
• Your health history. If you have diabetes, for instance, high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye, and having your eyes dilated can help your doctor to spot and treat this early.
• Your age. Once you hit 40, your risk of eye disease increases.
• Your eye health. If you have always had pretty healthy eyes, you don’t have any concerns about your vision, and you are just coming to the doctor for a routine exam, you may be able to skip having your eyes dilated.
Eye dilation is a great tool that can tell your doctor a lot about your eye health and your health in general. If you have questions or concerns about eye dilation, make sure you discuss them with your doctor. And if you are having eye issues (or if it’s just time for an exam), call North Suburban Eye Associates in Massachusetts. Call (781) 245-5200 for an appointment today!