Why does the doctor use eye drops prior to an eye exam?

[Damariscotta]

I had an eye exam this week. Prior to the exam, the doctor dropped yellow eye drops in my eyes. I wonder what is the eye drops used for? Would it do harm to my eyes?

[Damascus]

Before a routine exam, eye doctor may use eye drops to dilate your pupils so that he can look into your eyes easily. The eye doctor will use less dilation and milder drops so it is safe to your eyes.

[Damiansville]

The eye drop is used to dilate your pupils and it is common in an eye exam. The eye drop is harmless,so don't worry.