Eye dilation is often a part of a comprehensive eye exam, designed to help your optometrist get a better look at the back of your eyes. This can help detect signs of various eye conditions and diseases.
Eye dilation is a safe and important procedure, but it can sometimes cause temporary light sensitivity and blurry vision. Eye dilation may also temporarily make floaters more noticeable, but it does not form new floaters. The sudden appearance or increase of floaters in your vision may indicate an underlying issue. If you have concerns about floaters or any sudden changes in your vision, consult your optometrist for a proper assessment and personalized guidance.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Floaters are tiny, semi-transparent specks or shapes that appear to drift in your field of vision. They are caused by tiny particles within the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside your eye. These particles become more noticeable when they drift into your line of sight. They may also be more apparent when looking at a bright, plain background like a blue sky or a white wall.
Seeing a few floaters is normal. Most people notice a few floaters at some point in their lives, especially as they get older. As the vitreous breaks down with age, new floaters may form.
However, a sudden increase in floaters can be a sign of more serious problems, like retinal tears or detachment.
How Are Floaters Detected?
Your optometrist can assess your vitreous and retina during a comprehensive eye exam. They may use eye drops to perform a dilated eye exam. This way, they can gain a more detailed view of your eye and check for any issues with the retina.
What Happens During Eye Dilation?
Before your examination, you should discuss with your optometrist if you are allergic to any type of eyedrops. You should also go over your family and medical history.
Eye dilation is essential for a thorough, personalized examination, as it helps detect various eye problems and diseases. It involves using medicated eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing your eye doctor to get a clear view of your retina and optic nerve during an exam.
After the test, you may temporarily experience:
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty driving
The effects of dilation typically wear off after a few hours, though it can take longer for some people. Wearing sunglasses can help manage the temporary light sensitivity. You should refrain from driving for a few hours as your eyes return to normal.
Can Eye Dilation Cause Floaters?
There is no direct evidence linking eye dilation to the formation of floaters. However, dilation can make pre-existing floaters more noticeable for various reasons, including:
- Heightened sensitivity: After dilation, your eye becomes more sensitive to light and subtle changes in vision. This increased sensitivity might make you more aware of floaters that were already present.
- Eye movement during the exam: During an eye exam, you will be tested for several visual functions, potentially drawing your attention to floaters that you might not have noticed before.
- Age-related dynamics: A comprehensive eye exam often includes eye dilation, especially as you age and your risk for developing certain eye problems increases, With age, floaters also become more common due to natural changes in the vitreous.
When Should You Be Concerned About Floaters?
Eye dilation itself does not create floaters. A few floaters are generally harmless, but it’s important to talk to your optometrist as soon as possible if you notice sudden or significant changes in your vision. Watch for:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- New floaters combined with flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain effect blocking part of your vision
These could be symptoms of conditions like retinal detachment or tears, which require prompt medical attention to prevent vision loss. Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining eye health.
Take Proactive Steps to Protect Your Vision
Eye dilation is an important part of a comprehensive eye exam, designed to monitor changes in your eye health. However, if you experience sudden changes in vision, don’t wait!
At Brighton Eyecare, we’re committed to providing you with comprehensive eye care to suit your vision needs. Contact our team today to book your appointment and stay on top of your ocular health.
