I have my screening booked for next week. How long do the effects of the eye drops usually last? The advice says my vision may be blurry for a few hours, so I’m not sure whether I will be able to go into work.
Its best not to do anything immediately afterwards or to drive.
Hi, Thanks for your question. Because of the dilating effect of the eye drop that enlarge the pupil so that the ophthalmologist can view the back of the eye, it is advised that you don't drive until you eyesight has returned to normal and this can take different time for different people according to their response to the drops. Most people are able to return to work but of course that would depend on what your job is; if it's driving then obviously you shouldn't until your eyesight has returned to normal whilst other jobs, particularly if not in direct sunlight should be quite safe to return to. I have attached more information form the government website on eye screening.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/diabetic-eye-screening-patients-who-drive-to-appointments/diabetic-eye-screening-patients-who-drive-to-appointments
Thanks for the advice. I followed the guidance and arranged a lift to and from the appointment. It was at 08:10, and I was fine to drive by 12:30 so worked the afternoon. On reflection, I would book an appointment later in the day next time and not even have to worry about getting to work.
