ABOUT DRY EYE

Dr. Rigney Eye Care and Eyewear has been providing dry eye treatment to patients in and around Owasso, OK for more than 30 years. Dry eye is a condition in which a person does not have enough tear production to nourish and lubricate the eye. Tears are a necessary function for providing clear vision and maintaining the health of the eye, especially on the front surface. Dry eye is most common among older adults and actually affects millions of men and women each year.

Dr. Rigney continues to invest in the latest and greatest technology to better serve the residents in and around Owasso. His commitment to providing quality eye care has helped build the largest practice in Owasso, OK.

DRY EYE EXAM

Dry eyes are a result of a person’s inability to make enough natural tears on their own. Besides general discomfort, those who suffer from dry can experience:

• Itchy eyes
• Red eyes
• Blurred vision
• Lack of tear production
• Overall eye dryness, lack of blinking

During the initial examination, Dr. Rigney will evaluate the patient’s eyes and tears to determine factors such as:

• The volume of tears produced
• The quality of the tears
• How quickly tears can be made naturally
• How long it takes tears to dry

During the examination, with each blink of the eyelids, visible tears should be seen spreading evenly across the surface of the cornea. When this occurs, lubrication of the front of the eye occurs, which helps reduce infection, as well as keep the eyes clean by washing away foreign matters. Patients with dry eyes will show  lack of tears, areas of dryness on the cornea, redness, irritation, and drainage that is not in balance.

DRY EYE REVIEWS

"Even if you read negative reviews they don't reflect the true character of Dr Rigney. Point blank he is a good man. His office staff is attentive and kind. Phone calls are always answered and...

- A.R. / Healthgrades / Mar 27, 2020

TESTING AND DIAGNOSIS

In order to bring his patients relief, Dr. Rigney and his staff strive to obtain as much information as possible. As a result, they may administer several tests for dry eye, such as:

• The Schirmer Test – With this test, an anesthetic is applied to numb the area surrounding the eye. Thin strips of paper are placed in the corners of the eye and the patient is asked to close their eye. The paper collects any moisture that is created and the moisture is carefully measured. If moisture takes too long to accumulate, the patient is having difficulty making tears.  
• Epithelial Staining – The patient will receive and administer special eye drops that help Dr. Rigney see how quickly the patient’s tears dry. This test can also reveal damage to the surface of the eyes as the dye hugs any damaged cells on the eye’s surface. The test also highlights cells that do not have a protective layer.
• Meibomian Gland Evaluation – The eyelids should have tiny oil glands called Meibomian glands that line the edges of the patient’s eyelids. When the patient’s eyelids are closed, these glands should touch each other. In this test, the doctor will press on the eyelids to see if oil is emitted. This can often be the cause of dry eye.

TREATMENT

Dr. Rigney offers his patients the latest technology including MiboFlow, a therapeutic device specifically designed to treat dry eye. MiboFlow uses a heat pump that liquefies blocked secretions and improves meibomian glandular function.

In addition to MicoFlow, Dr. Rigney may recommend many other solutions. One of the more popular approaches to treating dry eyes includes adding tears using drugstore and over-the-counter artificial tear solutions. In addition, there are medications and eye drops that can be used to help treat redness and inflammation. For patients who are able to produce tears, we will recommend for them to conserve them. Meaning, keep the natural tears in the eyes as long as possible to help diminish the symptoms of dry eyes. This can be accomplished by blocking the tear ducts, which is how tears are normally drained. This is done with silicone or gel-like plugs provided by our office.

At-Home Dry Eye Remedies:

• There are also things patients can do at home using self care protocals to help reduce dry eye discomfort and overall symptoms.
• Remember to blink regularly
• Wear sunglasses outdoors, especially ones that expand outward to help prevent wind from reaching the eyes
• Increase the humidity at home and work
• Nutritional supplements that contain essential fatty acids
• Drinking plenty of water throughout the day

CONTROL DRY ITCHY EYES

Visitors to Dr. Rigney Eye Care and Eyewear in Owasso, OK can expect unparalleled care and treatment. Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions, but it doesn't have to be a setback or get in the way of everyday activities. If you suffer from dry eye or any other eye condition, call Dr. Rigney Eye Care and Eyewear today to schedule your eye examination and consultation for more information.