A dilated eye exam lets an eye doctor look at the back of your eye, including the retina and optic nerve. It can reveal conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration, which often cause no symptoms in their early stages.
The visit usually starts with questions about your health and vision, followed by tests of how well you see. Drops are then placed in your eyes to widen the pupils so the doctor can see inside more clearly.
- Your close-up vision may stay blurry for a few hours.
- Bring sunglasses, since bright light can feel uncomfortable.
- Consider arranging a ride home.
Ask your eye doctor how often you need an exam, because it depends on your age, health and family history.
