Optometrists often use diagnostic drops when they examine the health of the eyes.
One type of drop used is known as a mydriatic.
Mydriatic drops are used to dilate (enlarge) the pupil to allow a better view of the posterior of the eye (the retina) during the eye examination. Dilations are more commonly used for older patients, diabetic patients, highly myopic (short-sighted) patients and for those who have experienced flashes of light or an increasing number of floaters.
After instillation of the dilation drop you may experience increased sensitivity to glare due to the dilated (enlarged) pupil and blurred vision due to the loss of focus associated with the dilated (enlarged) pupil.
Patients may need to wear sunglasses for a several hours after the examination and are advised not to drive for at least 4 hours or until the vision returns to normal.