Why Dilation is Important
Most of us have had the experience of having our pupils dilated, but may people do not understand why this test is so important. Using eye drops to dilate the eyes allows the doctor to see the entire inside of the eye to be sure that it is healthy. Looking inside an undilated eye is like looking inside a room only through a keyhole.
Dilated eye exams are sometimes inconvenient, as your near vision is compromised, and you are light sensitive for a few hours afterward. However, the benefits are tremendous, and we have your eye health interests at heart when we recommend a dilation. Below is a general guideline for how often you should be dilated.
-Patients with macular degeneration should be dilated at least twice per year to ensure that the disease is not progressing to a more serious form.
-Diabetics need dilation at least once per year, to check for retinopathy; the blood vessels leak fluid onto the retina. Diabetic retinopathy is treatable. This is not only sight threatening, but also gives clues to the overall health of your body, especially the kidneys.
-Glaucoma or glaucoma suspects should be dilated once per year. We study the optic nerve to detect damage before vision loss is noticed.
-Over age 60? Dilated exams at least every other year to check for cataracts, macular degeneration, and retinal disease.
-Those with myopia (nearsightedness) should be dilated every 2-3 years because they are at higher risk for retinal holes, tears, and floaters.
-Children with hyperopia (farsightedness), eye turns, or learning disabilities should be dilated at least once before age 5 to rule out focusing disorders.
-Young, healthy adults should be dilated every 3-5 years to screen for abnormalities such as melanoma, retinal thinning, or other miscellaneous disorders.