In order to examine the entire eye, we must dilate the pupil, Examinining an undilated eye is like trying to look into a room through a keyhole. By enlarging the pupil, the doctor is able to clearly see the area within the eye. When your eyes are dilated you may notice certain changes. For example, your eyes may be more sensitive to light. For this reason our office will provide you with temporary sunglasses to mkae it more comfortable. Your distance vision may be slightly blurred (especially if you are farsighted), therefore you may want someone to drive you home. You also will have difficulty seein gyp close. We recommend that you take extra care walking up and down stairs or curbs, drivind and do not operate any hazardous machinery. These effects will last approximately 3 to 6 hours. It will also require about 30 minuters for the drops to dilate your pupils before the doctor is able to look inside your eyes. If your eyes become red or painful, or if you develop a headache or become nauseous, please return to our office or call us immediately.
Many types of eye diseases and injuries can go undetected without dilation. As with any disease, earyly diagnosis is essential to successful treatment and prevention of further complications. If you have any of the following conditions or fall in any of these categories, you are strongly urged to have your eyes dilated:
Amblyopia (lazy eye) Cancer
Cataracts Diabetes of High blood Pressure
Glaucoma or Family history of Glaucoma Headaches
High Myopia (nearsightedness) Flashing Lights or Floaters
Patients over the age of 50 due to the decrease in pupil size
Patients visiting our office for the first time, to establish a baseline examination.
A simple, thorough examination can expose problems within the retina. The retina is the delicate nerves layer in the back of the eye. It has ten layers of tissue that change light into electrical signals or messages which the brain reads as vision. An examination of the retina can uncover disorders that are not signaled by loss of vision or pain.
After dilation we are able to view your retina directly with specialized instrumentation and mafnifying lenses. Diseases such as retinal degeneration, retinal tears, tumors, diabetic eye disease, hypertension, and many other conditions, can only be detected by a dilated retinal examination.
The fee for the routine eye examination does NOT include dilation of the eyes. There is an additional charge of $25.00 for this procedure.
Dilation is very safe. By dilating your pupils, your doctor is providing you with the most thorough exam possible. You and your eyes will be healthier for it.
Dr. David L. Spivey Dr. Chad M. Carter
Therapeutic Optometrist
Optometric Glaucoma Specialist