Unequal pupils (anisocoria)

Overview

Some eye drops and allergy patches can enlarge one pupil.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pupils different sizes

Less common

• Droopy eyelid
• Blurry vision
• Light sensitivity
• Headache

When to get medical care

Causes

Normal, drops, nerve problems.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

An eye exam checks how pupils react.

Questions you may be asked

• Eye drops, injuries

Treatment

Get checked if new.

Self-care

• Note when you first noticed
• Look at old photos to see if the difference was always there
• Note any eye drops, patches, or plants you touched

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Wash hands after using eye drops or patches

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Often normal, but check if new.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Often normal.

New causes are treatable when found early.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is this difference normal for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Unequal pupils (anisocoria)