the Significant Changes in Eye Prescription After Dilation

Q: the Significant Changes in Eye Prescription After Dilation

Hello Sir： After using mydriatic eye drops, the ciliary muscle responsible for the "accommodation function" of the eye relaxes. <br>Therefore, the refraction results obtained at this time will be closer to the actual, true refractive error of the eye. <br>Generally, excessive eye

There is a significant difference in refractive error before and after dilation?

Hello Dr.
Liu, thank you for your response.
Today I went for a routine eye examination.
Last September, both of my eyes were at -500 degrees.
This time, before dilation, my left eye was -600 and my right eye was -575.
After dilation, both were -525.
The doctor mentioned that there was a significant difference before and after dilation and advised me not to get new glasses for now, suggesting that I should let my eyes rest and adjust before considering it.
I have been preparing for graduate school entrance exams for the past six months, which has indeed led to excessive eye strain.

I would like to ask, if I have good rest and look at distant objects, how long will it take for my vision to return to -525? My current glasses prescription is insufficient, and I am concerned that it may cause additional strain on my eyes.
Additionally, the doctor prescribed me eye drops to relieve eye fatigue, which contain 0.1% Neostigmine Methylsulfate.
Can I use a dilating agent while I sleep? Thank you again for your response, doctor.

Kǎoshēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/16

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello Sir: After using mydriatic eye drops, the ciliary muscle responsible for the "accommodation function" of the eye relaxes.
Therefore, the refraction results obtained at this time will be closer to the actual, true refractive error of the eye.
Generally, excessive eye use, especially prolonged near-distance reading, can lead to "ciliary muscle tension" due to over-accommodation, preventing complete relaxation and resulting in an increase in myopia, which is somewhat similar to "pseudomyopia." To avoid the occurrence of "pseudomyopia," it is necessary to allow the eyes to rest adequately or to use "ciliary muscle relaxants" to relieve ciliary muscle tension; this type of "pseudomyopia" can often return to normal.
Additionally, paying attention to the reading environment is also very important: 1.
Appropriate lighting: The most comfortable brightness is a 60-watt bulb or a fluorescent light of 20 watts or more, illuminated from the left rear.
2.
Correct reading distance: The distance between the eyes and the reading material should not be less than 35 centimeters.
3.
Adequate rest: To avoid excessive tension in the eye muscles leading to fatigue, after reading for 50 minutes, one should stand up, move around, and gaze into the distance for 5-10 minutes.
The use of mydriatics is ideally done before bedtime, as the temporary relaxation of the ciliary muscle can affect accommodation and subsequently impact work or reading.
It is essential to pay attention to eye care, avoid excessive eye strain, and not become overly fatigued; this is the way to care for your eyes.
Wishing you good health.
Dr.
Liu Jingzhen, Ophthalmology, Taipei City Hospital, Zhongxing & Renai Branch, Taiwan e-Learning Academy, 2007/04/17.

Reply Date: 2007/04/16

More Info

Understanding significant changes in eye prescription after dilation can be quite complex, especially for individuals who have experienced fluctuations in their vision. In your case, the difference in prescription before and after dilation is noteworthy, and it raises several important considerations regarding eye health and vision correction.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that dilation of the pupils is a common procedure during eye examinations. It allows the eye doctor to get a better view of the retina and other internal structures of the eye. However, dilation can temporarily affect the way your eyes focus, leading to changes in your prescription. The dilation process relaxes the muscles that control the lens of the eye, which can result in a temporary increase in nearsightedness (myopia) or a decrease in farsightedness (hyperopia). This is why you may have noticed a significant difference in your prescription before and after dilation.

In your situation, where your left eye was measured at 600 degrees and your right eye at 575 degrees before dilation, and both were found to be 525 degrees afterward, it suggests that your eyes were likely in a state of temporary stress or fatigue prior to dilation. This is not uncommon, especially for individuals who have been using their eyes intensively, such as during study periods for exams. Prolonged near work can lead to a condition known as "accommodative spasm," where the eye's focusing muscles become overworked, resulting in a temporary increase in refractive error.

Regarding your concern about how long it will take for your eyes to return to a more stable state, it largely depends on several factors, including the amount of rest you allow your eyes, your overall eye health, and your habits regarding screen time and near work. Generally, giving your eyes a break from close-up tasks and ensuring you practice the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes—can help alleviate eye strain. Additionally, ensuring you get adequate sleep and hydration can also contribute to your eye health.

As for the time frame, it can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvement within a few days of proper rest, while others may take a week or more to feel a return to their baseline vision. It is crucial to listen to your body and avoid straining your eyes further during this recovery period.

Regarding the use of medications, you mentioned that your doctor prescribed a solution containing 0.1% Neostigmine Methysulfate to help alleviate eye fatigue. This medication works by enhancing the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which can help improve the function of the ciliary muscle, thereby aiding in accommodation. However, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the use of this medication. If you are considering using a dilating agent while on this medication, it is crucial to consult your eye doctor first. Using both medications simultaneously without professional guidance could lead to unintended effects, such as excessive pupil dilation or increased eye strain.

In conclusion, while fluctuations in your eye prescription after dilation can be concerning, they are often temporary and can be managed with proper care and rest. It is advisable to follow up with your eye doctor after a period of rest to reassess your prescription and ensure that your eyes are healthy. If you continue to experience discomfort or significant changes in your vision, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation. Your eye health is paramount, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to achieving the best outcomes.

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