Dilation

Dilation of the eye is used to help detect diseases or serious health concerns with your eye. If Dr. Womack determines you need your eyes dilated due to family history or symptoms you are experiencing at the time of your visit, he will use special eye drops to widen your iris (the black part of your eye). This allows him to see the interior structure of your eye.

Dilating your eye can help Dr. Womack diagnose:

• Diabetes
• Eye tumors
• High blood pressure
• Infectious diseases
• Macular degeneration
• Retinal detachment
• Vasculitis

You will not need to have your eyes dilated at each appointment. However, if you have concerns or would simply like to have your eyes dilated as a precaution, let Dr. Womack know. He may also recommend it at your appointment and will always seek your permission before any dilation.

After you have your eyes dilated, you may need to have someone drive you home. Dr. Womack may also recommend you wear protective eyeglasses because your eyes will be sensitive to sunlight.