![dilated pupil dilated pupil](http://img.allw.mn/content/rq/wl/ytyn1h7656e0349fb84b6652051937.gif)
One drop activates a muscle (alpha-adrenergic muscles) that runs radially (like spokes on a wheel) on the iris. Actually, the “pupil” is the opening in the iris. Two types of drops are usually used to effectively dilate the pupil. The best, cheapest and most efficient way to exam treat these disease is by looking directly at the retina. Retinal examination for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration should be performed regularly. In modern times, atropine, or atropine-like medicines, are used to facilitate retinal examination, paralyze focusing ability and allow intraocular surgery. Atropine, or bella donna, was used in ancient times to dilate the pupil as a way to accentuate beauty. They really have no medicinal purpose, though in certain types of inflammation, they may relieve pain.
![dilated pupil dilated pupil](http://glaucoma.org.il/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Pupil_D.jpg)
Any and every time your doctor needs to look at your retina (or other structures such as the optic nerve), your pupils should be dilated.ĭilating drops cause mydriasis (pupillary dilation) and cycloplegia (see below). The dilating drops are annoying, but are necessary. A dilated pupil exam provides direct visualization and is the best way to examine the retina and is second to none. Dilating drops are useful tools for examining the eye.