Pain Management

Image of a woman with a headache.

We take a lot of aspects of our vision for granted. We expect to see nearby and faraway objects clearly, even if we require our eye care provider to prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses to do so. A huge degree of the information we take in about our world and our surroundings takes place visually, yet we rarely recognize and appreciate the fact. Finally, as adults we blink on average 10 to 15 times per minute or over 16,000 times during an 18-hour day. Despite all the mechanical action involved in blinking, moving one's eyes to follow a moving object, or even focusing our eyes to see a small object, most of us rarely experience eye pain. Thus, when we do experience eye pain, it is an extremely frustrating event, despite the magnitude of the pain we may feel. The pain may limit our ability to see, read, walk, watch TV or conduct many of the activities of daily living.

Common Sources of Eye Pain

• Physical or Chemical Irritants

Eye pain or irritation can come from a variety of sources. Sand or grit blown into one's eyes can cause significant discomfort until the particles are rinsed out with a neutral eye solution. The vapor of some harsh chemicals can also cause eye irritation, particularly if used in enclosed spaces. Tear gas is an example of a chemical designed to cause severe eye irritation, overactive tearing as the eyes attempt to wash the chemical away, and involuntary eyelid closure to avoid additional exposure to the irritant. An optometry evaluation may be necessary under these circumstances to help treat the exposure and prevent permanent damage.

• Photokeratitis

"Snow blindness" or "flash burns" -- the eyes' equivalent of a sunburn -- can occur when we expose our eyes to bright sunlight or extremely bright lights without the protection of ultraviolet sunglasses. Just like a sunburn, the eyes may require two to three days to recover. Treatment for photokeratitis usually consists of cool compresses to the closed eyes three to four times per day, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication by mouth and plenty of fluids. Like a sunburn affects the skin, photokeratitis can cause long term damage to one's visual health.

• Dry Eye Syndrome

Insufficient tear production or dry eye syndrome can also cause significant eye pain and irritation. We depend upon our liquid and mucous-based tears to lubricate our eyeballs and prevent friction with each blink. When tears are absent or made in insufficient quantity, friction, irritation, and pain can result.

Managing Pain

Some neurological conditions -- such as migraine headaches, cluster headaches or trigeminal neuralgia -- can also appear with primary symptoms of eye pain. See your eye care provider if these symptoms persist or if you are experiencing frequent or ongoing eye pain.

Location

Hours

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Lunch from 12-1pm

1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials & Reviews

  • "Always helpful, always friendly, and always professional. I have been using this practice for years and never a complaint. Totally recommend their services."
    Derrick J
  • "From the moment we walked in the office they took great care of my children! I'm very pleased by the time he took and for the exceptional care they all received. When you walk in with 4 kids it can be overwhelming but not at this office. We will not change eye Dr's again!"
    Wesley S
  • "Very professional, thorough. Pleasant, caring staff."
    Patricia F
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer took his time to make sure I felt comfortable with the exam. My glasses were ready sooner than expected. Very satisfied. The staff is great!"
    Cathy W
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer was methodical and took time for explanations. He made me feel like a valued patient...not a number."
    Allen C
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer and his staff are all very friendly and informative. The atmosphere and experience is always pleasant."
    Deryl R
  • "Excellent service! Dr. Gundersheimer always goes above and beyond to take exceptional care of his patients. He and his staff are kind, professional and attentive. Always a pleasant experience! Thank you!"
    Kristina M
  • "A fun atmosphere, kind and helpful staff, and a great doctor! I was very happy with my visit. And my glasses!!"
    Mickinze V
  • "We have used Dr Gundersheimer for years. Always feel confident in our eye exams by him."
    Gene P
  • "Really nice Dr and staff. Wait was a little but I was well worth it !"
    Erin C
  • "I love going to see Dr. Gundersheimer! Not only do I get an eye exam, I get an explanation of what is going on with my eyes and what causes it as well as what to expect in the future with my eyes. He is very thorough in his exam and always makes sure to answer any questions I have."
    Will M
  • "Very professional and nice! Thanks for see me!"
    Catherine B