There are several reasons why your eyes might not be dilating even after using dilation drops.
The most likely reasons include:
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Prior Eye Issues: Your iris (the colored part of your eye) might be partially stuck to the lens behind it. This can happen because of:
- Prior Inflammation (Uveitis): Inflammation inside the eye can cause the iris to adhere to the lens.
- Trauma: An injury to the eye can also cause this adhesion.
- Prior Eye Surgery: Previous surgeries can sometimes lead to the iris sticking to the lens.
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Anisocoria: This is a condition where one pupil is naturally larger than the other without the use of dilating drops. If you already have anisocoria, the drops may not have a noticeable effect on the already larger pupil, or the smaller pupil may be resistant to dilation.
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Medications: Certain medications can interfere with the action of dilating drops.
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Nerve Damage: Damage to the nerves that control pupil dilation can prevent the drops from working effectively.
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Age: In some older individuals, the pupils may not dilate as well as they used to.
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Drop Administration: Ensure the drops were administered correctly and have not expired.
If only one pupil is not dilating, it's especially important to consult an eye doctor to determine the underlying cause. A difference in pupil size (anisocoria) can sometimes indicate a more serious medical condition.
