Your Eye Exam: Trusting the Doctor's Assessment - Ophthalmology

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Following the previous question (seeing yellow-green lines in the eyes)?


Hello doctor, I underwent a dilated eye exam, and the doctor who examined me said that there were no significant issues with my retina.
However, during the procedure, he mentioned to the nurse next to him that my dilation wasn't complete and that my pupils were still moving.
Should I trust what the doctor said? Also, could you please explain what you mean by "nerves"?

Hsu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/16

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Ms.
Hsu: Pupil dilation is only for the convenience of examination and does not affect the diagnosis.
If there are no issues after the examination, there is no need to worry; you can simply continue to observe.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Sincerely, Dr.
Kao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2016/02/16

More Info


When it comes to eye examinations, particularly those involving dilation (or "散瞳" in Mandarin), it's essential to understand the process and the assessments made by your eye care professional. From your description, it seems that you underwent a dilated eye exam, which is a common procedure used to get a better view of the retina and other internal structures of the eye.
During a dilated eye exam, the doctor uses special drops to widen your pupils, allowing them to see more of the inside of your eye. This is crucial for detecting various eye conditions, including retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. The fact that your doctor mentioned that your retina appeared normal is a positive sign, as it suggests that there are no immediate concerns regarding your retinal health.

However, you noted that the doctor mentioned your dilation was not complete and that your pupils were still moving. This is an important observation. Incomplete dilation can affect the accuracy of the examination, as the doctor may not have a full view of the retina. It’s common for dilation to take some time to reach its full effect, and sometimes, patients may feel that their pupils are still reacting to light even after the drops have been administered. If the doctor expressed concern about the dilation not being complete, it might be worth discussing this further with them. You have every right to seek clarification about your eye health and the implications of incomplete dilation.

As for trusting the doctor's assessment, it is generally advisable to have confidence in your healthcare provider's expertise. They are trained to interpret the results of the examination and to provide you with the best possible care. However, if you have lingering doubts or concerns, it is perfectly acceptable to ask for a second opinion or to request a follow-up appointment for further evaluation. Communication is key in healthcare, and your comfort and understanding of your health status are paramount.

Regarding your question about "神經" (which translates to "nerve" in English), in the context of eye health, this typically refers to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is crucial as it transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. Any issues with the optic nerve can lead to vision problems, and conditions such as glaucoma can cause damage to this nerve due to increased intraocular pressure.
In summary, while it is generally safe to trust your doctor's assessment, do not hesitate to seek further clarification if you have concerns about your eye health or the examination process. Understanding the details of your eye exam and the implications of the findings is essential for your peace of mind and overall health. If you continue to experience symptoms or have questions about your vision, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment to discuss your concerns in detail. Remember, your vision is vital, and being proactive about your eye health is always a good approach.

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