Eye dilation (mydriasis) is a routine procedure in comprehensive eye examinations. Specialized drops temporarily enlarge the pupil, allowing the eye care professional a clear, wide view of internal structures like the retina and optic nerve. This view is essential for diagnosing conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. After this procedure, many people wonder if it is safe to resume physical exercise.
Why Dilation Temporarily Restricts Activity
Temporary activity restriction results from how dilating agents affect the iris and ciliary body muscles. The drops contain agents that widen the pupil and temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle responsible for focusing. This combination prevents the iris from constricting, causing significant light sensitivity (photophobia).
The paralysis means the eye loses its ability to focus on near objects, resulting in blurred vision. These temporary visual impairments make activities requiring clear vision and coordination unsafe. Trying to force the eyes to focus against the effect of the drops can also lead to eye strain and headaches.
Safe and Unsafe Exercise Guidelines
Most eye care professionals recommend avoiding strenuous physical activity for at least a few hours due to safety concerns. Activities relying on sharp depth perception, clear peripheral vision, and quick reaction times are discouraged. Examples include cycling, running outdoors, or playing high-speed sports like basketball. The temporary blurriness and light sensitivity impair the ability to gauge distances, increasing the risk of accidents or falls.
Avoid exercises that involve significant straining, such as heavy weightlifting or intense core work. Straining can cause a temporary spike in intraocular pressure (IOP), the fluid pressure inside the eye. Engaging in strenuous activity while vision is compromised is an unnecessary risk. Low-impact movements, such as a gentle walk on a treadmill or light stretching, should only be attempted if vision allows for safe movement.
If outdoor activity is unavoidable, wearing dark, wrap-around sunglasses is essential. The enlarged pupil allows more light, including harmful ultraviolet rays, to enter the eye than normal. Eye protection is a priority for comfort and ocular health. Activities posing a risk of eye trauma, such as contact sports, must be strictly avoided until vision is fully restored.
When Full Activity Can Resume
The duration of dilating effects varies based on the type of drops used and individual factors like eye color. For most people, effects like light sensitivity and blurred near vision wear off within four to six hours. However, effects may last up to 24 hours, especially for those with lighter-colored eyes.
Full, unrestricted activity, including strenuous exercise, should only resume once vision has completely returned to its baseline state. This means all blurriness is gone and the eyes are no longer abnormally sensitive to light. If severe symptoms occur after the exam, such as sudden eye pain or persistent vision loss, seek medical attention immediately.