The symptoms of dry eye can be very subtle at first. Many people feel as if they have something in their eye. Their eyes may become easily tired. Wearing contacts may be uncomfortable. “Your eyes may sting, burn and water. You may find you have troubles seeing to read or seeing thecomputer screen after extended […]
The symptoms of dry eye can be very subtle at first.
Many people feel as if they have something in their eye. Their eyes may become easily tired. Wearing contacts may be uncomfortable.
“Your eyes may sting, burn and water. You may find you have troubles seeing to read or seeing thecomputer screen after extended periods,” said Dr. Paul Griffey, an ophthalmologist for Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center.
Dry eye can affect young people and many adults, especially women, according to the National Eye Institute. Nearly 5 million Americans over the age of 50 are estimated to have dry eye. Roughly 60 percent of them are women.
“As women go through hormonal changes, they often develop dry eye syndrome,” said Dr. Griffey.
Dry eye, a temporary or chronic condition, occurs when the eye doesn’t produce enough tears or when the quality of tears is reduced. Dry eye can also happen when the eyelid is not positioned properly against the eye. Age is a common risk factor.
Left untreated, dry eye can lead to pain, ulcers or scars on the cornea. Permanent loss of vision is uncommon.
Treating Dry Eye at Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center
The first step to treating dry eye is to make an appointment with your eye doctor to receive a proper diagnosis. It’s important to determine whether dry eye is caused by an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed.
Some of the causes of dry eye include:
- antihistamines, nasal decongestants, prescription medicines
- skin diseases on and around the eyelids
- pregnancy
- allergies
- infrequent blinking – from staring at computer or video screens
- mmune system disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
- chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the front part of the eye, or the lacrimal gland
- exposure keratitis – when the eyelids stay open during sleep
- loss of sensation in the cornea from long-term contact lens wear
- excessive dosages of vitamins
- hormone replacement therapy for women
People who have dry eye can improve their symptoms by making simple lifestyle changes such as wearing sunglasses and glasses that fit close to the face to slow tear evaporation, using an air cleaner inside to filter dust and adding moisture to the air with a humidifier.
Most people find relief by using artificial tears to lubricate the eye. Available over-the-counter, patients should consider choosing preservative-free tears to avoid any allergic reaction to some of the ingredients.
“If drops are not enough, there are several other steps we can take to improve the patient’s dry eyes,” Dr. Griffey said.
Some patients may need a prescription to increase tear production. Others might need to have their tear drainage system plugged or surgery to tighten the eyelid area.
At Griffey Eye Care and Laser Center, we’re committed to helping patients improve their eye health. Protect your vision by taking good care of your eyes. Make an appointment to see one of our eye specialists at our offices in Chesapeake or Norfolk.
Source: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health
Allergy and Eyes
Redness. Itching. Watery eyes.These are some of the first symptoms allergy eye sufferers notice. “Not only is it distracting and annoying, but it also can affect your vision,” said Dr. Rob Fox, who has been practicing optometry for 15 years. Although today’s multi-symptom allergy medications at the grocery store do wonders for runny noses and […]
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I recently went to my family doctor for pain I’d been having in my eye that was moving down my neck. I’d been waiting to have an MRI scheduled, and it was taking forever. I wanted to get a second opinion about what course of action should be taken. My husband and daughter are both patients at this practice and have always received stellar treatment. Dr. Griffey took very good care of me and went the extra step to send a letter to my family doctor while I was still there to concur with what they had said and also confirm that he would suggest an MRI as well. I was very impressed with him and his patient care. And, I appreciate the staff (particularly Tara and Benita) in scheduling me in as soon as possible. I would highly recommend this practice! Thank you all again for your help.
Beth K
I was referred to Dr. Griffey by several people. I was told he was an excellent ophthalmologist, and they were right. This was my first time meeting him and he made me feel so safe, comfortable and confident that he was providing me with the best and most knowledgeable treatment I could ask for. As I sat in the chair, I observed him interact with a baby he kissed on the forehead, it was so special to see him do that because it showed a gentle side of him, and his interaction with his assistants was nice, professional and straight to the point of what he needed in order to help his patient, I remember him saying to one of them that he was not going to let me leave until he reviewed a report from another doctor about my condition and that really made me feel special because it showed his concern. I don’t think I could have asked for a better doctor. Thank you Dr. Griffey for being the best and hats off to your father and grandfather.
C. Blount
I had a wonderful first appointment. The staff is attentive and the techs and doctors are knowledgeable and take their time really getting to know their patients. So happy to have found them.
M. Catherine
I travel from Atlanta, Georgia to see Dr. Griffey, MD, and board certified Ophthalmologist. Dr. Griffey has performed two surgeries on me and I would trust him to do anything he deems necessary. The staff is fantastic and I would recommend Dr. Griffey, to all that needed to see a competent Ophthalmologist!!!
M.Bailey Buck
I want to thank everyone at Chesapeake Eye Care for their care on a recent visit. I had an accident involving my eye and even though they were booked, the receptionist worked me in that day. The technician and Dr. Fox saw me promptly and performed a thorough exam. I was very pleased with both of them and appreciated their kindness and professionalism.
P. Brangan
My dad had cataract surgery a couple years ago. I was a little nervous for him, he’d been resisting getting surgery for so long. However, the staff and Dr. Griffey were wonderful to him and everything went very smoothly. He had a great experience, and I am thankful to them for making him so comfortable.
K. Kroll
The best thing I ever did was get LASIK surgery; it is unbelievable how I can see 20/20. When I get in bed at night I still think … wait….no, I don’t have to take my contacts out and it’s been 3 months. It was wonderful in Mexico also with not having to worry about contacts and all the solutions to bring with me. I had an amazing experience with my LASIK surgery with Dr. Paul Griffey and his staff! I would definitely recommend him to friends and family!!!
E. McConnell
I sent my mom to Dr. Griffey for a 2nd opinion on her eyes. Years later, I am still satisfied with the care he has provided. She had an appointment today and Dr. Griffey called me personally to discuss my concerns. WOW!!!!! GREAT PROVIDER!!!!!! I also referred my dad to him after a bad cataract surgery elsewhere. Dr Griffey did his 2nd eye without complications. THANK YOU for taking care of my parents! I have 30+ years in the business as a licensed optician and have worked with many doctors, I would recommend Dr. Griffey to any patient for care!!!!!!!!!!
Selena Cabral
I have been a patient of Dr. Griffey, since 2012. I’m born, raised, formal education, retired Law Enforcement, City of Virginia Beach, VA. After moving to Atlanta, I felt I could not find the care I needed, so I travel back and forth to receive my care. I will not allow anyone to see me. Well worth the trip, and will continue to do so!
Thank you for being The Best…
MBB
We both underwent cataract surgery, in both eyes. Barbara’s was in September of 2018. Mine was in December 2018. We both had excellent experiences, from her first visit, to my last. Dr. Griffey, as well as everyone on his staff, (that we came in contact with), were prompt and very professional. Yet, at the same time they were relaxed and very friendly. We were very impressed that everyone, asked, if we had any questions.
And, we can both see 20/20 again!!.
There was an general atmosphere of confidence and calmness throughout his practice, as well as within the Chesapeake Surgical Center. That made us both feel very comfortable, and well cared for. We have never before experienced such a well run practice. We have, (and will continue to), highly recommend Dr. Griffey to anyone who needs eye care.
Barbara and Eddie
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