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Pupil Dilation Is Key To Evaluating Eye Health

April 25, 2023

The eyes are one of our five main senses. They’re also the only parts of our bodies that an ophthalmologist can use to easily analyze our optic nerves and retinas, which are at the back of the eyes and elements of our central nervous system. To visually access the nerves and retinas, the doctor must first dilate (enlarge) our pupils. 

At the office of Center For Sight, our skilled professionals provide the highest quality eye care in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Regular eye exams play a key role in determining such things as eye diseases, whether or not you need vision correction, and your eyes’ overall health. 

Our pupils are the round openings in the center of the iris (the colored tissue that’s the “eye color” at the front of the eye). They change in size to allow light in and out.

Two main types of pupil exams are used to check your eyes: undilated and dilated. The undilated one tests your vision and can help determine if you need glasses or a change in prescription. An ophthalmologist inspects the eyes’ optic nerves and retinas while their pupils are dilated using eye drops that need 15 to 30 minutes to take effect. 

Dilation helps detect a host of potentially serious eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (the eye’s macula begins to break down, causing blind spots in your central vision), diabetic retinopathy (uncontrolled blood sugar levels damage the retinas’ blood vessels); and retinal vein occlusion (a blockage of blood flow in one of the retinal veins). Regular dilated eye exams play a key role in the early detection of conditions and diseases, making treatment more effective. 

At the office of Center For Sight, our skilled professionals provide the highest quality eye care in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Consistent exams by an ophthalmologist are imperative to monitoring the health of your eyes and the rest of your body. Please call us today to schedule an appointment.