How long does the effect of the 0.125% tropicamide eye drops last?
Hello Doctor, last Friday I visited the ophthalmology department at the hospital due to a significant increase in my prescription.
The doctor prescribed a dilating agent, and I was given Antu eye drops to use before bed.
I applied the drops on Friday night, and today (Sunday) I still feel a blurriness, especially when wearing my glasses while looking at things up close (I can see more clearly at a distance with my glasses).
When I'm not wearing my glasses, there is a certain distance at which I can see clearly.
I would like to know how long this condition might last and whether I need to see the doctor again.
AK, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/12
Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: After the administration of mydriatic agents, it typically takes several hours to a few days for the eyes to return to normal.
During the recovery period, patients may experience the following symptoms: * Blurred vision, especially when looking at nearby objects * Photophobia, sensitivity to light * Glare, seeing halos or rays of light in bright conditions * Dry eyes These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own without special treatment.
In your case, since you administered the mydriatic agent on Friday night before bed, and you are still experiencing blurred vision today (Sunday), particularly when wearing glasses for near objects, this may be due to the mydriatic agent not having fully worn off yet.
It is advisable to wait a few more days to see if your vision returns to normal.
If the blurred vision persists for more than a week, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as eye pain or redness, you should seek medical attention again.
Reply Date: 2024/05/12
More Info
Blurred vision after the use of tropicamide eye drops is a common side effect due to the medication's ability to dilate the pupils and temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle, which is responsible for adjusting the lens of the eye for focusing. Tropicamide is often used in eye examinations to allow doctors to get a better view of the retina and other internal structures of the eye. The effects of tropicamide typically last for several hours, but in some individuals, especially those with lighter-colored eyes or those who are particularly sensitive to the medication, the effects can last longer.
In general, the blurred vision should start to improve within a few hours after the drops are administered, but it can last up to 24 hours or more in some cases. If you are still experiencing significant blurred vision two days after using the drops, it is advisable to consult your eye doctor again. They can assess whether the blurred vision is a result of the medication or if there may be another underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
It's also important to note that the blurred vision you are experiencing while wearing glasses, especially when looking at close objects, could be related to the prescription of your glasses. If your prescription has changed significantly, your current glasses may not be suitable for your new vision needs, particularly for near vision tasks. This could explain why you find it easier to see at a distance while wearing glasses but struggle with close-up tasks.
If you are experiencing discomfort or if the blurred vision persists, it is crucial to follow up with your eye care provider. They may want to re-evaluate your vision and determine if a new prescription is necessary or if there are other factors contributing to your visual symptoms. Additionally, if you notice any other symptoms such as pain, redness, or significant changes in vision, you should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while some degree of blurred vision after using tropicamide is expected, prolonged symptoms warrant further evaluation. Your eye doctor can provide guidance on whether your symptoms are a normal reaction to the medication or if they indicate a need for further investigation into your eye health. Regular eye examinations are essential, especially if you notice changes in your vision, to ensure that any potential issues are addressed in a timely manner.
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