What Diseases Dilate Pupils?
Pupils are the black circles in the middle of the eye that allow light to enter the retina. When light enters the eye, the pupils constrict to reduce the amount of light entering. However, certain conditions, illnesses, and medications can cause the pupils to dilate, or enlarge. In this article, we'll discuss what diseases can cause pupil dilation.
Iritis
Iritis is an inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye, and is one of the most common causes of pupil dilation. It can be caused by an infection or a reaction to certain medications. Iritis can cause pain, blurry vision, and light sensitivity.
Uveitis
Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It can be caused by an infection, an autoimmune disorder, or an injury. Symptoms of uveitis include pain, redness, and sensitivity to light. Uveitis is a serious condition and can lead to vision loss if it is not treated.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye increases, causing damage to the optic nerve. It can cause vision loss and is usually treated with eye drops or surgery. One of the symptoms of glaucoma is dilation of the pupils.
Brain Injury or Stroke
A brain injury or stroke can cause the pupils to become dilated. This is a sign of a medical emergency and should be treated immediately.
Medications
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, and opioid pain medications, can cause the pupils to dilate. This is usually temporary and should go away once the medication is stopped.
It is important to note that pupil dilation can be a sign of a serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor if it persists. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.