Screening and stable service – information about the eye drops used to dilate your pupils

What effect can the drops have on my vision?

The drops may cause some stinging, and after about 20 minutes your vision will become blurred, especially when you try to look at objects close to you. You may also find bright lights dazzling, especially on a sunny day. The blurring lasts for up to 6 hours and you will not be able to drive during this period.

If you are receiving these drops then your records will have shown us it is safe to use these drops on your eyes. However, very rarely (and only in those prone to a condition called angle-closure glaucoma), the drops may cause your eye pressure to rise very suddenly. If this does happen, you will need immediate attention from an eye doctor.

The symptoms of this sudden eye pressure rise include:

• Pain or severe discomfort around the eye.
• Redness of the white of your eye.
• Constantly blurred sight, sometimes with rainbows or halos around lights.
• Nausea and vomiting.

If you experience any of the above symptoms within 24 hours of receiving dilation drops, you should immediately go to your local A&E department or Moorfields A&E department in City Road for a further examination (open 24/7 for emergency eye problems only). If possible please print this page and take it with you.

You can also call Moorfields Direct for urgent advice (see contact details below).

Drops used:

TROPICAMIDE 1%

Instilled at (date and time):

ON:                                       AT:                                   

Author: Stacey Angus, clinical physiology technician  

Review date: January 2022