Dry Eyes and Menopause

Yes, here it is, the one word women between the ages of 40 and 50 do not want to hear -- menopause. Why mention it in a newsletter about eyes? Well, did you know the chance of developing dry eyes increases in women during pre-menopause and continues during post-menopause?

Women may experience a disruption of hormones that help maintain a stable tear film. This may result in inflammation which can lead to decreased tear production and dry eyes. Some symptoms include:

• Eye fatigue
• Excessive tearing
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

We have created a center for treatment of dry eye disease; the only one in Kentucky. Visit us at www.DryEyeCenterOfKentucky.com to learn more about the specialized services we offer.

Your Eyes and Graves' Disease

What is Graves' disease? Graves' disease is an immune system disorder which can result in the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This condition is more commonly known as hyperthyroidism.

Some people may experience signs and symptoms of a condition known as Graves' ophthalmopathy. These signs and symptoms may include:

• Bulging eyes
• Excess tearing
• Dry, irritated eyes
• Gritty sensation in the eyes
• Pressure and pain in the eyes
• Puffy eyelids
• Red or inflamed eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Double or blurred vision
• Limited eye movements

It is important to see an Ophthalmologist once you have been diagnosed with this disease. Your eye doctor will work closely with your family physician or endocrinologist to provide the best possible care for your vision.

Step Out and Walk with Us

The annual American Diabetes Association’s Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes will be held on Saturday October 15, 2011 on the Great Lawn at Waterfront Park. Opening ceremonies will begin at 8:00 am with the walk starting at 9:00 am. Come out to the walk and have your picture taken with honorary walk chair, Darrell Griffith.

Diabetes hurts everyone, especially our patients. So in an effort to help find a cure, we invite you, our patients and families, to Walk with Us. All the funds you donate go directly to the American Diabetes Association. Our team co-captains this year are Samantha Mathieson and Michelle Smith. Please feel free to contact them at info@EyeCareInstitute.com with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the walk.

At the walk, anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is considered a Red Strider. Let us know if you are a Red Strider so we can make sure you are registered correctly. You will be recognized at the Walk and be given a special red hat, T-shirt and more for participating in this event.