Plants
Surprisingly, certain plants have the ability to induce mydriasis when touched or ingested. One group of plants known for this effect is the nightshade family, which includes belladonna, jimsonweed, and angel’s trumpet. The cause behind this pupil dilation is the presence of tropanes, organic compounds found in these plants. If a person has cuts or open wounds on their hands and comes into contact with a nightshade plant, tropanes can enter their system, potentially leading to various consequences, with mydriasis being one of the milder ones. However, in cases of excessive exposure or consumption, the symptoms can escalate to convulsions, comas, and even death.
Aniridia: A Rare Condition with Absent Iris
Aniridia is an uncommon condition in which a person is born without an iris. The absence of the iris gives the affected individual the appearance of a constantly dilated pupil. The iris plays a crucial role in regulating the amount of light that enters the eye, so individuals with aniridia often experience heightened sensitivity to light. It is important to note that aniridia typically affects both eyes, and those with this condition often face additional eye-related concerns such as glaucoma and cataracts.