expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Ferris, O.D., F.A.A.O.

Optometrist

Dr. Mary Ferris is an optometrist who has practiced in the Olympia area for over 13 years. She is currently filling in part-time at the Optical Shop of Washington while she plans to open her own private practice. 
21 years Experience
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Ferris, O.D., F.A.A.O.
  • Chehalis, WA
  • Purdue University
  • Accepting new patients

Can you put eye drops in your eyes while wearing contacts?

Only certain eye drops will do well with contact lenses and their label will specifically mention "for contacts." Otherwise, they're to use without contact lenses to make sure READ MORE
Only certain eye drops will do well with contact lenses and their label will specifically mention "for contacts." Otherwise, they're to use without contact lenses to make sure they're effective and don't ruin your lenses.

Can type 2 diabetics get Lasik eye surgery?

Yes, but you want to ensure your A1c is normal and glucose is stable so that your measurements are accurate. If not, wait until they are.

Redness of eye won’t go away

It sounds like you need an exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to diagnose the problem and treat it.

What helps eye pain after cataract surgery?

Your surgeon should have prescribed medicated eyedrops to prevent infection (an antibiotic) and calm inflammation and pain (a steroid and sometimes also an NSAID.) You should call READ MORE
Your surgeon should have prescribed medicated eyedrops to prevent infection (an antibiotic) and calm inflammation and pain (a steroid and sometimes also an NSAID.) You should call your surgeon's office if you're experiencing pain.

How often should you change contacts?

This depends upon the type of contact lens and how it was designed and FDA-approved. Daily disposable contact lenses should be discarded after wearing once and are the healthiest READ MORE
This depends upon the type of contact lens and how it was designed and FDA-approved. Daily disposable contact lenses should be discarded after wearing once and are the healthiest modality.

Can you wear glasses for farsightedness all the time?

Yes, if the prescription was measured for distance viewing.

How long do eye floaters usually last?

A lifetime- if they're the benign floaters which are strands of collagen in the vitreous which have clumped together. You need a dilated eye exam to determine the type of floaters READ MORE
A lifetime- if they're the benign floaters which are strands of collagen in the vitreous which have clumped together. You need a dilated eye exam to determine the type of floaters and if treatment is needed.

Should my eye hurt after wearing contacts?

No, your eye should not hurt. Either your contact lens doesn't fit properly or you have an infection. I would schedule an appointment with your optometrist or ophthalmologist today. READ MORE
No, your eye should not hurt. Either your contact lens doesn't fit properly or you have an infection. I would schedule an appointment with your optometrist or ophthalmologist today.

Are colored lenses bad for the eyes?

Colored lenses sold online or in stores without a prescription may be bad for your eyes- their origin, sanitization process, contents, and sizing are often unknown. It's not legal READ MORE
Colored lenses sold online or in stores without a prescription may be bad for your eyes- their origin, sanitization process, contents, and sizing are often unknown. It's not legal to sell contact lenses without a prescription in the US for the protection of consumers. Prescription lenses with color still "breathe" less than clear lenses and are less comfortable if the paint is sprayed on the front surface. My preferred are Air Optix Colors because they allow the highest oxygen transmission to the eye and sandwich the pigmented layer in the middle of the lens- for a smooth, comfortable surface. I hope this helps!

Are there drops available to treat dry eyes?

There are literally dozens of drops to treat dry eyes AND itch is often a symptom of allergy- for which there are antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing drops as well! I recommend READ MORE
There are literally dozens of drops to treat dry eyes AND itch is often a symptom of allergy- for which there are antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing drops as well! I recommend you see a doctor to determine which drops are best for the type of dry eye or allergic response you're experiencing. It takes a microscope and diagnostic dyes, meibography or special imaging to answer this question.

Can my eye be fixed

An oculoplastic surgeon would evaluate this and start with a CT scan to
answer your question regarding orbital reconstruction.

Can I wear sunglasses with contacts?

Yes, and sunglasses are always recommended to prevent skin cancer of the eyelids, growths (like pinguecula or ptyergium) on the eye, cataracts, and macular degeneration- besides READ MORE
Yes, and sunglasses are always recommended to prevent skin cancer of the eyelids, growths (like pinguecula or ptyergium) on the eye, cataracts, and macular degeneration- besides improving your comfort and safety.

eye worm

It sounds like you need to be examined by a doctor with a microscope- including the underside of your eyelids.

I'm farsighted and have a slight astigmatism - should I wear my glasses all the time?

Your prescription is minimal. If the glasses make it worse, I would return to the prescriber for a recheck.