During an eye examination, the doctor looks through the pupils to physically inspect the anterior chamber of the eyes. By use of dilating drops, he can temporarily paralyze the muscles that control the iris, roughly doubling the size of the average pupil.
Improved Diagnosis
The larger pupil size increases the view of the retinal area by up to seven times and allows for a three-dimensional inspection. This results in improved recognition of eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and retinal disorders, as well as systemic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Light Sensitivity
By locking the pupils in an open position, the doctor temporarily disables the eyes' ability to protect themselves from bright light. Therefore, for a few hours after the exam, sunglasses might be required.
Improved Prescription Accuracy
Dilating drops can also temporarily restrict your eyes' natural ability to change focus (called accommodation). Without having to chase a moving target, the doctor can more clearly define the best possible prescription.
Temporary Loss of Focus
The loss of accommodation that helps the doctor during the exam becomes a problem for the patient afterward. This inability to focus makes it impossible to do any reading for several hours and makes it necessary for some patients to bring someone to drive them home.
Conclusion
The problems with dilated exams can generally be classified as inconveniences that last a few hours. The advantages they give in diagnosis and early detection of disease can last a lifetime.
