Chronic Red eyes, always tired, and I look unproffessional

[golfer2b]

Hello,
I am 23 and since I have been in high school, I have always had a problem with red watery eyes combined with the issue of falling asleep in class and I have always been able to fall asleep at any time of the day.  My eyes do not hurt me, but the issues I have are that I look extremely tired at work and if I have to take a class for work I fall asleep in the middle of class.  I have dealt with this long enough and I just need a little guidance on what it could be and what kind of doctor I should go see.
Thank You,
Golfer2b

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Perhaps you have sleep apnea.  Look into it.  Next, you should see a board-certified ophthalmologist for a complete exam to help you find some ways to help with the red, watery eyes.  You could have dry eyes, allergies, lid margin disease or other problems.  In the meantime you can make sure you are eating a very healthy diet, taking proper nutritional supplements, hydrating properly, getting plenty of exercise, avoiding smoking and drinking.  You can find an ophthalmologist in your area by going to www.aao.org.

Good Luck,

MIchael Kutryb, MD

[golfer2b]

Thank You for your help.  I guess its time to get it checked out.  I read something about sleep apnea and it mentioned the epworth sleepiness scale and I scored a 17 when anything above a 9 required you to see a doctor immediately.  I work out daily, try to eat as healthy as possible, bring a water bottle with me wherever I go, and also don't smoke and that does not do much but I will stay on the daily grind as deviating from it will make it worse.  I guess I will have to see an Ophthalmologist too.  Thank god for health insurance.

Thanks,
Greg