Absolutely: While it may be uncomfortable due to the increased sensitivity to light, no harm can come from using your eyes after dilation.
How long after eye dilation Can I watch TV?
On average, it takes four to six hours for eye dilation to wear off. Alternatively, it only takes about 30 minutes for your eyes to dilate fully. But, everyone’s eyes are different. So, the exact time it takes for your dilation to wear off can be lesser or greater.
Is it okay to look at screens after eye dilation?
Dilating drops make it hard for your eyes to focus on things close to you. You probably won’t be able to read, use the computer, or do other tasks that require near vision after your appointment, unless you wear bifocals or use reading glasses. If you work outside, the bright light may bother you.
Can you use your phone after dilation?
Working on your phone or computer will likely be more difficult after eye dilation, as your eyes are more sensitive to light and less able to focus. If you must look at a digital screen, consider wearing blue-light protection glasses to reduce eye strain.
What should you do after your eyes are dilated?
Dilation can cause blurry vision and light sensitivity, so it’s important for you to take care of yourself and your eyes after your appointment.
- Have a friend or family member drive you home from your appointment, or take a taxi.
- Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes after your appointment.
Do I need to wear sunglasses indoors after dilation?
It may take several hours for the effects of the dilating drops to wear off. Your vision will likely be blurry, and you may have trouble focusing on near objects. If light bothers you, you may need to wear dark glasses (or sunglasses) for a short time.
Can you speed up eye dilation recovery?
For some patients, dilation can last longer than 6 hours, but it’s not common. There is no real way to make eye dilation go away faster, so it’s best to sit tight, wait it out, and try not to stress! If you are concerned about the amount of time it’s taking for dilation to pass, contact your eye doctor.
How long shouldn’t you drive after eye dilation?
Typically, vision is back to normal within an hour. There is no specific period of time that a person must wait before driving after having their eyes dilated; the decision to drive after an eye exam is a personal choice.
What happens if you don’t wear shades after eye dilation?
The biggest problem for most patients is light sensitivity. Since your pupils can’t close to block out excess light, you may experience discomfort – particularly on a bright day. Wearing sunglasses, even indoors, can help until the effects of the medication wear off.
Why can’t I drive after eye dilation?
When driving, it is important to be fully alert, and ready for anything. Following pupil dilation, it is possible that glare could simply be too obstructive. Therefore, we recommend that all patients who have their pupils dilated bring a trusted friend or family member to drive them home from their appointment.
Why You Should not dilate your eyes?
Eye dilation also makes your vision blurry and your eyes more light sensitive, which, for a few hours, can affect your ability to drive or work. So if eye dilation is greatly inconvenient, ask your doctor about arranging another appointment.
Is dilating the eyes necessary?
A comprehensive eye exam can be the only way to identify these conditions early and manage them before they can severely impact your vision. As such, dilating the eyes is necessary to ensure long-term healthy vision in people of all ages.
How long after you dilate Can you drive?
Typically, vision is back to normal within an hour. There is no specific period of time that a person must wait before driving after having their eyes dilated; the decision to drive after an eye exam is a personal choice.
How long do side effects of dilation last?
What are the side effects of dilating drops? Light sensitivity and blurry vision at near are common side effects. Both these gradually go away within 4 to 6 hours. Sunglasses can help decrease sensitivity to light after a dilated eye exam.