Dean McGee Eye Institute

05/06/2026

Allergy season is here — and red eyes don’t always indicate an eye infection. Many eye conditions share similar symptoms like redness, itching, tearing, or discharge, which is why pink eye is often misdiagnosed. In reality, issues such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid margins), dry eye syndrome, and allergic conjunctivitis can cause irritation and redness without being contagious.

Other causes of red or uncomfortable eyes may include eye strain from screen time, contact lens–related infections, or inflammation inside the eye such as iritis or keratitis, which require very different treatments. Even something as simple as a foreign particle in the eye can mimic pink eye symptoms.

Because treatment depends on the underlying cause, proper diagnosis is essential — especially when symptoms include pain, blurred vision, or persistent redness.

04/16/2026

When a child struggles with reading, one of the first questions parents often ask is, “Could it be their eyes?”

In a recent episode of the AAPOS Little Eyes, Big Topics podcast, OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute pediatric ophthalmologists Dr. Ethan Davitt and Dr. Tammy Yanovitch, Director of Medical Student Education for the Department of Ophthalmology at The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, help clear up common myths around dyslexia. They explain what dyslexia is, what it is not, and how pediatric ophthalmologists can support families in finding the right evaluations and resources.

Dr. Davitt and Dr. Yanovitch’s contributions within the academic health system further OU Health’s tripartite mission of bringing top‑class care to Oklahomans through academic excellence.

04/02/2026

Staring at screens all day? 💻

The 20‑20‑20 rule is an easy way to reduce digital eye strain from screens. Here’s how it works:

👉Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for ⏰20 seconds.

This short break relaxes the eye muscles that work hardest during screen use and can help reduce eye strain and fatigue, headaches, and dry or irritated eyes.

03/25/2026

At the forefront of healthcare innovation, our glaucoma specialists are committed to a triad of excellence: delivering exceptional patient care, mentoring the next generation of medical professionals at the OU College of Medicine, and spearheading groundbreaking research that paves the way for novel treatments.

This holistic approach not only enhances the quality of life for our patients but also establishes new benchmarks in medical practice.

Together, we are transforming healthcare for our community and beyond, driving progress and fostering hope through collaboration and expertise.

03/16/2026

It’s Save Your Vision Month! This month is a reminder that regular eye exams, early detection, and expert care can make a lasting difference in your vision.

From routine checkups to advanced, specialized treatment, the experts at Dean McGee Eye Institute are here to help protect your sight.

📅 Schedule your eye exam today.

03/12/2026

It’s World Glaucoma Week. Early detection is everything for this "silent" disease.

👉 More than half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it.
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve — often from increased eye pressure — and typically begins with subtle peripheral vision changes that can go unnoticed. Over time, this damage can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.

At OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, our specialists are experienced in detecting, managing, and treating glaucoma — helping protect your vision at every stage.

📅 Schedule an eye exam today.

02/26/2026

Ready to see glasses-free in 2026? LASIK at the OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. As part of Oklahoma’s flagship academic health system, our surgeons at the Stephenson Refractive Surgery Center have been at the forefront of laser technology for over 20 years.

Free LASIK screening available* 📞 Call (405)271-2500

02/23/2026

February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month. Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss for those over 50.

Our retina specialists provide the latest treatments and access to clinical trials that aren't available elsewhere in the region.

02/19/2026

Tired of scratchy, irritated eyes? DMEI was the first in Oklahoma to offer LipiFlow® therapeutic heat to unclog oil glands and provides advanced IPL therapy for inflammation.

02/16/2026

Glaucoma often has no symptoms until permanent vision loss occurs. Know your risk if you are over 60, have a family history, or are of Black, Asian, or Hispanic heritage. We offer comprehensive care, from MIGS (Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) to advanced laser treatments.

02/12/2026

Your eyes can reveal what’s happening with your heart. 💓 High blood pressure can damage retinal blood vessels, leading to blurry or distorted vision.

If you have diabetes or hypertension, routine eye exams are essential.

Discover how high blood pressure impacts eye health, from hypertensive retinopathy to macular degeneration.

02/11/2026

Congratulations to OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute clinical instructor Scott Samples, named a 2026 Visionary by the Contact Lens Institute.

With more than 25 years of experience in eye care and nearly two decades specializing in contact lenses, Scott is recognized nationally for advancing best practices in contact lens wear, care, and patient education. As a clinical instructor at OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, he brings deep expertise in fitting everything from simple soft lenses to complex scleral lenses, with special interests in keratoconus, corneal ectasia, and irregular astigmatism.

We’re proud to see OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute team members recognized among leading eye care professionals across the U.S. and Canada!