Dilation is the widening of the pupils of the eyes. It can occur naturally in response to low light or as a side effect of certain medications. In some cases, dilation can also be a sign of a medical condition, such as a brain injury or drug overdose. Knowing how to check yourself for dilated pupils can be important for monitoring your health and seeking medical attention if necessary.
To check yourself for dilated pupils, stand in front of a mirror in a well-lit area. Look straight ahead and focus on an object in the distance. Then, shine a flashlight or penlight into one eye at a time. If your pupils are dilated, they will be larger than usual and may not constrict (get smaller) when exposed to light.