Dilation Side Effects

A question from the Vision Forum:

I had my eyes dilated in an exam, and about two hours later experienced nausea, shakiness and dizziness that came on very suddenly. It lasted for about an hour, then slowly went away over the next two hours. I have had my eyes dilated every year since I was ten (I'm 50) and have never had this happen before. Is this a possible side effect of the drug used to dilate?

Answer from the doctor:

Some patients can have a mild allergic reaction to dilating drops. Maybe the last doctor used a different type of drop, or this time your pupils were so dilated they became super light sensitive. At your next eye exam, ask your doctor to use a mild drop, as the last time you had a strong reaction.

Suggested Reading:

• Dilation of the Eyes
• How Long Does Dilation Last?
• What's Involved in an Eye Exam?