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 FAQ 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I have my eyes dilated for my eye exam?
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A dilated eye exam is the best thing you can do for your eye health! It’s the only way to check for eye diseases early on, when they’re easier to treat — and before they cause vision loss.

The exam is simple and painless. Your eye doctor will check for vision problems that make it hard to see clearly, like being nearsighted or farsighted. Then your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and check for eye diseases.

Since many eye diseases have no symptoms or warning signs, you could have a problem and not know it. Even if you think your eyes are healthy, getting a dilated eye exam is the only way to know for sure.

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How long will my eyes stay dilated?
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The drops your doctor uses usually last for 4-6 hours, or sometimes longer. That means your pupils stay wide open and can’t block out light in bright areas as they usually would. That causes glare and makes your vision blurry. If you decide to drive before the drops have worn off, you won’t be able to see things as clearly as usual.

 

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Can I drive after I have my eyes dilated?

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Many patients do drive themselves after having their eyes dilated, but it is important to remember that you will be sensitive to light, and your vision may be somewhat blurry. You should wear dark sunglasses after your exam. If you are not comfortable driving, please bring a driver with you.

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Should I bring anything with me for my eye exam?

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  • A current set of glasses or contacts with your contact lens   prescription.

  • A current list of the medications you take, including any over the counter medications.

  • Sunglasses (or a driving buddy).

  • Picture I.D.,  health insurance information and vision insurance information.

  • Questions, concerns or information for your doctor.

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