What causes dilated pupils?
Sep 03, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Pupil dilation may be caused by alternating bright and dim light, emotional excitement, atropine poisoning, cataracts, iriditis, or other reasons. Reducing sugar intake helps control blood glucose levels and prevents the development and progression of cataracts. At the same time, consuming more foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as carrots and spinach, is beneficial for eye health.
Under normal circumstances, pupil dilation may be caused by alternating light and darkness, emotional excitement, cataracts, iritis, or atropine poisoning. If you experience any discomfort, seek medical attention immediately. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Alternating Light and Darkness
When the ambient light dims, the muscles in the iris relax, causing the pupils to naturally enlarge in order to capture more light. This typically presents no other symptoms and is only observed when transitioning from bright to dark environments. No special treatment is required, as pupil size automatically adjusts according to changes in lighting.
2. Emotional Excitement
Emotional responses can activate the autonomic nervous system, triggering the release of adrenaline and resulting in pupil dilation—a physiological response preparing the body for emergency situations. Practicing emotion management techniques such as deep breathing and meditation can help regulate emotional reactions and indirectly influence pupil size.
3. Cataracts
Cataracts are primarily caused by aging, ultraviolet radiation, and other factors. In patients with cataracts, hardening and deformation of the lens nucleus reduce transparency in the pupil area, which may lead to apparent pupil dilation. Additional symptoms may include light sensitivity and altered color perception. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, medications such as glutathione tablets, vitamin C tablets, and complex vitamin B tablets may be used for treatment.
4. Iritis
Iritis is an inflammatory reaction caused by pathogen infection. Inflammation or increased intraocular pressure can lead to pupil dilation, possibly accompanied by eye pain and vision loss. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as compound cyclophosphamide tablets, azathioprine tablets, and methotrexate tablets for treatment.
5. Atropine Poisoning
Atropine poisoning may result from excessive use of eye drops containing atropine. As an anticholinergic drug, atropine blocks the parasympathetic nervous system's effect on the eye, causing relaxation of the pupillary sphincter muscle and subsequent pupil dilation. Symptoms may also include dry mouth and blurred vision. Immediate discontinuation of exposure to or ingestion of atropine-containing substances is essential. Treatment should follow medical guidance and may include neostigmine methylsulfate injection, physostigmine salicylate eye ointment, or V-U belladonna alum capsule.
In daily life, reducing sugar intake helps maintain stable blood glucose levels. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals—such as carrots and spinach—can benefit eye health.
