Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam Specialist

What happens in a comprehensive dilated eye exam?

Having regular comprehensive eye exams with pupil dilation is one of the most important things you can do to protect your vision. A comprehensive eye exam allows Dr. Nadji to check for glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts along with retinal holes and tears. During the dilated portion of your exam, special eye drops will be administered to widen your pupils so the back portion of your eye – the retina and the optic nerve – can be evaluated.

Does dilation hurt?

No, the drops are completely painless and so is the dilation itself. As your pupils widen, they'll let in more light, so you will not be able to read or focus on near objects or tasks, and you may be extra sensitive to lights. Dr. Nadji advises you to bring your sunglasses with you, or a pair of disposable sunglasses will be provided after the visit. The effects of dilation will wear off in a few hours.

Why is a dilated exam so important?

Dilated exams provide a view of the interior structures of the eye that can't be seen with other types of tests and evaluations. By looking inside the eye at the retina, optic nerve, and other structures, early signs of diseases can be detected that might otherwise go unobserved. After dilation, Dr. Nadji may recommend photos be taken of the retina for further analysis.

How often should I have a comprehensive dilated eye examination?

Since it is possible for your child to have a serious vision problem without being aware of it, your child should have their vision checked by an ophthalmologist starting around 3 years of age. Your child and teenager should be checked yearly to ensure their eyes remain healthy. For adults, most young adults have healthy eyes, but they still need to take care of their vision by wearing protective eyewear when playing sports, doing yard work, working with chemicals, or taking part in other activities that could cause an eye injury. Have a complete eye exam at least once between ages 20 and 29 and at least twice between ages 30 and 39. Young adults should also let their eye doctor know if they experience such conditions as:

• Visual changes or pain
• Flashes of light
• Seeing spots or ghost-like images
• Lines appearing distorted or wavy
• Dry eyes with itching and burning

Furthermore, after the age of 40, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye disease screening at age 40, the time when early signs of disease and changes in vision may start to occur. Based on the results of the initial screening, an ophthalmologist will prescribe the necessary intervals for follow-up exams. Seniors age 65 and over should have complete eye exams by their eye doctor yearly.