Stay up to date on the latest vision and optometric news and events from Lionsgate Optomerty & Optical in North Shore, serving North Vancouver and West Vancouver, BC.
The struggle against dry eye every winter is real. Fortunately there are eye treatments and home remedies to relieve symptoms.
Having an autoimmune disease like Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can affect your tear production and eye health.
Here's how eye exams helped save Katie's vision and quality of life. Call Lions Gate Optometry & Optical to schedule your appointment.
Is your toddler blinking more frequently? Here are some potential reasons why.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of permanent vision loss in people over the age of 60. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the treatment outcome. Learn more here, at your local optometrist.
Your eye experts at Lions Gate Optometry & Optical have compiled our top 7 tips for keeping your eyes healthy and safe this holiday season. Let us know how else we can help!
Contact lenses are a great option for people who don't want to wear glasses when on the road, but do you know how to take care of them on the go? Before your next trip, book a contact lens assessment at Lions Gate Optometry & Optical in North Vancouver
Eye exams aren't just important for your eye health. They can often reveal serious problems with your general health. Read on to learn how an eye exam could potentially save your life.
Many scientific studies have confirmed that exposure to various things in the environment can negatively affect our eye health and vision. Read on to learn more.
It's Contact Lens Safety Month, which makes it the perfect time to brush up on ways to keep your eyes and vision healthy when wearing contact lenses. Here are our top contact lens safety tips to keep your peepers happy.
Seeing floaters is common and usually nothing to worry about. Yet there are times when floaters are a sign of a serious eye condition. Here’s what you need to know about eye floaters, and how Lions Gate Optometry & Optical can help!
Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common eye conditions in the world, yet many people put up with the discomfort, even though it's very treatable. Here are tips to help you deal with your dry eye symptoms, along with treatment from your eye doctor.
Here are 5 eye symptoms that you should never ignore. Call Lions Gate Optometry & Optical without delay if you or a loved one experiences any of these eye or vision problems.
Every child should have a comprehensive eye exam before the start of the new school year. Just as you wouldn’t consider sending them to school without a backpack or a lunch box, make sure their eyes and vision are ready for the challenges ahead.
Did you know that Nerf® guns, a supposedly safe children’s toy, have been shown to cause eye injury in certain cases? What makes them so dangerous?
Hyperopia affects near vision in children and young adults. Want to know more about hyperopia? Here we explain ways to recognize the condition and help your child if they have it.
Cataract surgery not only improves vision. Research suggests that cataract surgery may also prevent cognitive decline.
Here’s how you can celebrate National Sunglasses Day on June 27.
Working at home has many benefits, but it can also trigger computer-related eye strain. Here are some proven ways to reduce digital eye strain, whether at home or in the office.
At some point in our lives, we've all had our eyes examined using an eye chart – whether during a school screening or at the optometrist's office. But what exactly is the chart and what does it measure? Read on to find out!
Bloodshot eyes can be harmless, but may also be a sign of an underlying eye condition.
Macular degeneration is a major cause of vision loss. Here are 6 ways to help lower your risk of developing this sight-threatening condition.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, your optometrist will monitor its progression and manage your symptoms. Once you need surgery, your optometrist can direct you to an eye surgeon.
This March, in honor of National Save Your Vision Month, we’ve compiled a list of 5 essential ways to help you keep your eyes healthy and strong.
There are many reasons why your eyes may feel itchy and sore. However, new research suggests that these symptoms can also be linked to COVID-19.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to give your eyes some love. Here are 10 ways you can give your eyes the attention they deserve, to protect them both now and in the future.
An eyelid twitch can develop for a number of reasons, and most of the time it’s not a cause for concern. Find out what may be causing your eye to twitch and what can relieve it.
Your children's vision is their primary window into the world around them. Keeping their eyesight healthy is an important part of allowing them to experience life to the fullest. Read these 5 tips!
Did you know that pregnancy hormones can affect your vision? Read on to learn about the possible visual changes that some women may experience while expecting, and what warning signs to look out for.
For many children, learning via a digital device has become routine, and their eyes are paying the price. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize digital eye strain while your child is studying.
Creating healthy living habits is a great way to preserve your vision throughout your lifetime. These can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
If you've noticed that your vision turns hazy after enjoying a meal, you may have an early stage of diabetes mellitus. Here's how your optometrist can help.
Eye care is just as important for children as it is for adults. The sooner you teach your children how to care for their eyes, the more likely they will be to ingrain these habits for life. Here are some tips for kids!
Do your eyes become irritated and itchy when you wear contact lenses? Could be dry eye syndrome, allergies or the contact lenses themselves. Read on to find out what to do if you experience contact lens discomfort.
Mosquito bites are annoying but on the eyelid they can be particularly uncomfortable and even impact your vision. Find out what you can do to treat the bite at home, and when it's a good idea to contact your optometrist.
As we age our eyes start to change, but that doesn’t mean you have to struggle with declining vision. Find out what you can do to maintain eye health after the age of 50.
Although COVID is still present in our lives, we are slowly returning to a semi-normal life. With so many disruptions this past year, the one thing that should be consistent is your child's back-to-school eye evaluations.
If you wear contact lenses, you likely appreciate the freedom it provides. But did you know that wearing contact lenses in water or while sleeping can damage your eyes?
Choosing the right eye drops to relieve dry eye syndrome can be a real challenge, as there are several brands and products on the market. Learn all about the types of artificial tears available and start feeling better today.
Since blue eyes contain very little melanin — a pigment that helps block out light, including the sun’s harmful UV rays and blue light — they often feel more sensitive to bright light. Find out more.
More and more children are being diagnosed with myopia, a common refractive error associated with developing serious eye diseases later in life, such as macular degeneration and glaucoma. Find out what myopia is and how to prevent it from progressing
Dilated eye exams make it possible for eye doctors to better assess your eye health and are the only way to detect certain eye diseases.
Multifocal contact lenses can help people with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) see clearly, whether focusing on close or distant objects.
Ever wonder why rock superstar Bono wears sunglasses, even when indoors? It's not due to his "look", but rather is related to managing his glaucoma.
Eye herpes can cause several uncomfortable symptoms and recurring flare-ups. In extreme cases, it can lead to blindness. Discover how your eye doctor can help.
Many factors contribute to vision loss, some of which may even be relevant to you. Read on to learn what puts a person at risk of developing sight-threatening eye diseases, and discover what an eye doctor can do to help.
Sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure and heart failure; it also causes eye-related issues. Find out how your eye condition may be linked to sleep apnea.
Glare is that annoying bright light that causes you to squint. It also can cause eye strain when using your computer. Luckily, anti-glare coated glasses offer many benefits, such as reduced glare, allowing you to see and feel better.
If you don't see well while driving at night, there's a chance you have night blindness. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is the inability to see well at night or in dim lighting. It's not considered an eye disease, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem.
It may surprise you to learn that contact lenses can be safely worn by children aged 8 and over. Read on to learn more about contact lenses for the younger demographic.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases causing damage to the optic nerve that can lead to vision loss or blindness. While there is a lot of information out there on glaucoma, there are also many misconceptions. Read on to learn to discover the REAL facts.
Contact lenses that don’t fit properly can cause discomfort and even eye damage. During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor will perform various tests to ensure you get the right prescription and the proper fit.
The older one gets, the more the eye changes and the higher the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions. Learn about why middle-aged people need reading glasses and when to visit the eye doctor.
Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially sight-threatening condition caused by high blood sugar levels in diabetics. Fortunately, your eye doctor can advise on how to manage and reduce the risk of developing it.
If you or your child is new to wearing contact lenses, read our Top 5 Tips to make the adjustment easier.
Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Why not, you ask? Read on to find out why sunglasses are just as much “fall wear” as jackets are.
Consuming certain vitamins and nutrients can support your eye health and potentially ward off serious eye diseases and conditions. Read on to find out more!
Myopia or nearsightedness is most commonly corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. As children grow, their prescription often gets stronger, what we call “progressive myopia”. Our eye doctors can help.
Eye floaters are usually normal. But what causes them and when do they indicate a serious eye problem that needs emergency eye care?
Driving long distances, prolonged screen time and even reading can cause eye strain symptoms like headaches and blurry vision. Here are some eye exercises that can help you relax your eyes and find relief.
Adjusting to new eyeglasses can take time, but persistent visual or eyestrain symptoms that accompany your new eyewear could warrant a call to your optometrist.
If you wear glasses and a face mask, you’ve probably struggled with “mask fog.” Your lenses get all misty, requiring you to wipe your eyewear throughout the day. Below are a few strategies to help you prevent your eyeglasses from fogging up when wearing a mask. But First, Why Do...
To get maximal eye protection from your sunglasses, consider replacing them every two years, according to a study conducted in Brazil. Over time, protective UV coatings become less effective.
Many people don't realize they have a vision problem. Perhaps they've gone years without glasses and haven't noticed the gradual change in their vision. Or they’ve noticed a change, but put off a visit to an eye doctor. Regardless of whether you’re experiencing problems, make an appointment with Dr. M....
Countless people around the world wear daily disposable contact lenses or dailies. These popular single-use lenses are removed and discarded at the end of each day, and a new, fresh pair is inserted the next morning. Used properly, dailies promote eye health, and they’re comfortable and convenient. Despite the many...
An online eye exam is an automated and interactive vision test that claims to measure mainly visual acuity. It may seem like a convenient way to evaluate your vision or get an eyeglass or contact lens prescription, as these tests can be administered using your computer, tablet, or smartphone from...
The Changing Face of Eye Care COVID-19’s rapid sweep across the country has forced optical practices to make rapid clinical management decisions. Some optometrists temporarily shuttered their businesses due to the pandemic, while others began to offer emergency appointment services and telehealth. As mandatory restrictions begin to lift in many...
During the COVID-19 outbreak, we have been going above and beyond to ensure that people are receiving emergency eye care. If you're having an eye emergency call your North Vancouver optometrist first.
Tele-optometry is a branch of telemedicine that can cover a wide range of problems and treatments related to vision and ocular health. Tele-medicine delivers medical care through digital medical equipment and telecommunications technology, such as online videos accessible through smart phones and tablets. This allows patients to easily receive screenings,...
You and your children are likely spending more time on mobile devices and computer screens than ever before. Too much time spent staring at screens can cause computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, in certain people. While not serious, this condition can be very uncomfortable, potentially causing: Headaches Eyestrain...
Coronavirus and Your Eyeglasses Did you know that our glasses (this includes the lenses and the frame) can potentially transfer viruses, such as COVID-19, to our eyes, nose, and mouth? This is because viruses — as well as bacteria — are easily transferred from our surroundings to our hands and...
As coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads around the world, health professionals are demanding that people limit their personal risk of contracting the virus by thoroughly washing their hands, practicing social distancing, and not touching their nose, mouth, or eyes. In fact, it may surprise you to learn that the eyes play an...
Is your eye doctor's appointment coming up? Are you worried about going to the eye clinic during the new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic? Rest assured, keeping our patients and staff are safe is our top priority. We anticipate that this outbreak will continue for a while, and do not want our...
Everyone seems to be staring at a screen these days, whether their computer, their smartphone or another digital device. The stress it puts on your eyes can cause a condition called "digital eye strain" (DES) or "computer vision syndrome" (CVS). Symptoms include eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck...
Nation-wide awareness about the vast dangers of obesity is at an all-time high, with TV shows like “The Biggest Loser” and health initiatives such as Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign shining a spotlight on the importance of fitness and good nutrition. However, despite the public’s knowledge of obesity’s effects on...
Playing outside in a snowy winter wonderland can be magical. Under clear skies in the sunshine, the soft white landscape becomes just about irresistible, whether at home or travelling on a winter-weather get-away. Before you let your children run outside to build the most adorable snowman or fling themselves onto...
Did you know that people with diabetes are 20 times more likely to get eye diseases than those without it? There are three major eye conditions that diabetics are at risk for developing: cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. To prevent these sight-threatening diseases, it's important to control your blood sugar...
Your eyes aren't just the windows to your soul — they can also reveal valuable information about your general health beyond whether you need glasses, including: diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. It is not unusual for people to come in for an eye exam just to check their eyesight...
Smoking harms nearly every system in your body — including your eyes. Though we are all aware of the health effects associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and bad teeth, few know about the negative impact it can have on our vision. Smoking and Eye Disease Smoking,...
Once you and your doctor have decided on the type of contact lenses you'll need, it's time to choose the most suitable contact lens solution for your eyes and contacts. There exist 2 different types of solution for contact lenses: Multipurpose and Hydrogen Peroxide-based. While both remove debris and build-up,...
Swimming in a pool with your contacts on or topping off your solution may seem harmless, but they could compromise your contact lenses and your vision. Below are daily habits to adopt for optimal contact lens care: Wash Your Hands Regularly Whether you use daily or monthly contact lenses, make...
Whether you live in a cold climate or have visited one in the winter, you have probably seen someone who just walked in from the cold outdoors sporting glasses that are no longer transparent, or perhaps you’ve experienced it yourself. Why Do Glasses Fog Up? There are several factors that...
Good Eye Care Habits & Hygiene By practicing good eye care habits and hygiene, you can prevent many vision problems from occurring. Eye problems and the risks associated with vision loss only grow as you age. By neglecting eye care, you place yourself at a higher risk of suffering from...
Countless adults, teens and even children will be wearing colored contact lenses this Halloween, but few are aware of the risks involved. Ever wondered what those cat-eye contacts are doing to your eyes? If you got them without a prescription, beware of health complications. Enjoy a safe and happy Halloween...
September Is Sports Eye Safety Month! Ocular sports trauma is among the leading causes of permanent vision loss in North America. Tens of thousands of people get treated for sports-related eye injuries a year, with the most common injuries occurring during water sports and basketball. Infections, corneal abrasions, eye socket...
This summer, heat waves with scorching temperatures have hit communities nationwide, making an already hot summer even hotter. With high temps and heat waves in certain areas, it’s now more important than ever to protect yourself. For best practices and tips for maintaining healthy vision in the summer heat, talk...
July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and no wonder! With the summer sun out in full force, it’s now more important than ever to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. During this month, people who have suffered from UV ray damage and their loved ones are encouraged to share...
This summer, whether you’re headed across state lines on a family road trip, flying off to Europe, grabbing a quick weekend getaway, or taking a vacation in your own backyard, don’t forget to protect your eyes! Check out our top 4 tips for ensuring healthy eyes this summer, and remember,...
June is Cataract Awareness Month. During this important time, people living with cataracts (and their loved ones) are encouraged to talk about their personal experiences by giving each other helpful information and sharing their knowledge and advice. Use the hashtag #CataractAwarenessMonth on your social media channels to encourage and support...
Do your kids need glasses in order to see clearly? Maybe they have a strong case of nearsightedness, perhaps they have astigmatism, or another type of refractive error. Whatever the cause, getting your kids to wear eyeglasses can be a parenting challenge. Dr. M. Gilani treats patients from all over North...
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the USA; in Canada, Mental Health week is May 6th to 12th. Since 1949, it has been observed throughout the United States as a way of drawing attention to the importance of proper mental health. This year’s theme is #4Mind4Body. The idea is...
April is Parkinson's Awareness Month in the USA and Canada, a time when those living with the disorder, their family members, friends, and community come together to raise awareness and share helpful information. People with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and their loved ones are encouraged to share their stories, struggles, and...
Spring is a season of new beginnings, when the cold harsh winter months are behind us, flowers bloom, and people begin spending more time outdoors. For people with allergies, spring means one more thing: suffering. Spring may be in the air, but for allergy sufferers, so is pollen, pet dander,...
March 8th is International Women's Day, a day when women are honored and their accomplishments celebrated worldwide. From medicine to law, entrepreneurship to corporate leadership, education to the military, women are achieving great strides in areas of business like never before. In addition to professional achievements, International Women's Day is...
Most of us have the basics: bleach, oven cleaner, air freshener, furniture polish, and window spray. Did you know that chemicals found in these kinds of cleaning products can be toxic and harmful to your health? In small amounts, they generally don’t cause much damage. But when used on a...
Like peanut butter and jelly, school and vision go hand-in-hand. Both are important partners in ensuring that children excel in their learning, extracurricular activities, and relationships with their peers. ADD/ADHD and Vision Problems Did you know that certain vision problems can mask themselves as behavioral or learning difficulties? In fact,...
January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma, a silent eye disease, is the most common form of irreversible blindness in the world. It is actually a group of diseases that causes progressive damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can lead to...
Each year during the month of January we recognize World Braille Day which gives us the opportunity to take a moment and appreciate the incredible gift that Braille has given to those who are blind or suffer from vision loss. What is Braille? Braille is a tactile representation of letters...
Nerf Guns: Popular, Projectile... Safe? With the newest Nerf guns and blasters reigning at the top of lists for the most popular toys this holiday season, many parents are excited to surprise their kids (or their spouses) with these coveted toy weapons. There is, in fact a whole culture behind these...
Whether you live in a climate with cold winter weather or you are planning a ski trip up north, winter can be a challenge if you suffer from dry eyes. Dry, cool air, cold winds and even drier indoor heating can cause eye irritation, burning, itchiness and redness, and sometimes...
Diabetes is becoming much more prevalent around the globe. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 425 million adults were living with diabetes in the year 2017 and 352 million more people were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By 2045 the number of people diagnosed is expected to...
Brush Up Before You Dress Up Halloween is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults alike. When else do you get to dress up as anyone (or anything) you want, socialize with friends and eat lots of treats? Nevertheless, lurking behind those costumes and...
Regular exercise is an essential component of overall health and wellness. It is proven that exercise reduces sickness and disease; it increases strength, immunity, and mental health; and it also helps regulate bodily functions and maintain a healthy weight. Research shows that exercise can lower our risk of chronic conditions...
Screen Time Pros and Cons Whether it is homework, email, gaming, chatting with friends, searching the web or watching Youtube, kids these days seem to have an endless number of reasons to be glued to a screen. Many parents out there are wondering how bad this can be for their...
Getting old doesn’t have to be synonymous with vision loss. There is a lot you can do to keep your eyes and vision healthy and prevent age related eye disease and vision loss, especially if you start early. Keeping your eyes healthy and strong may require some lifestyle changes, but...
What Is Progressive Myopia? Nearsightedness or myopia is one of the most prevalent eye disorders worldwide and its incidence is increasing. In fact by 2050, myopia is projected to affect half of the world’s population! Many children diagnosed with nearsightedness (myopia) experience a consistent worsening of their vision as they...
An online eye test may seem like a convenient way to check your vision or get an eyeglass prescription but beware, these tests aren’t all they are chocked up to be. In fact, they may even be dangerous. What is an online eye test really testing? An online eye test...
Healthy eyes and good vision are essential for your child’s growth and development. In fact, learning is 80% visual, which means a child’s success in school, athletics and many other aspects of life can be impacted by poor vision. Good vision goes beyond how far you can see, and also...
It’s almost back to school time for college students and whether this is your first time away from home or you are already a pro, you want to be prepared with as much knowledge as possible to live safely on your own. This knowledge includes eye and vision safety, as...
While it may seem like a harmless action, rubbing your eyes can actually cause a lot of damage. There are a number of different reasons that people rub their eyes and for the most part, it does more harm than good. While rubbing your eyes might feel really good in...
Migraine Awareness Month: An ocular migraine is any migraine headache that involves a visual disturbance such as flashes of light, seeing stars or zigzags or the appearance of blind spots in the visual field. Ocular migraines can interfere with your ability to go about your daily tasks such as driving,...
Sure, sunglasses might add the final touches to your chic ensemble, but the real reason to purchase your shades is to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only does glare from the sun make it difficult to see, but the UV rays it reflects can cause permanent damage to...
Vision is a critical component to succeed as an athlete and this doesn’t just mean having 20/20 vision. There are a number of visual processes that are involved in optimal sports performance, whether you are playing a weekly little league game or competing in professional sports. The eyes and the...
While we all know that regular eye exams can help detect warning signs of disease and prevent vision loss, many people fail to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem with the eye. In fact, only about half of Americans that are at risk for serious vision loss...
April is Women’s Eye Health Month in the USA and May is Healthy Vision month in Canada too, so let’s take the opportunity to look at some tips for maintaining eye and vision health, with a special focus on women. Statistically, women are more at risk than men for eye...
If you want strong, healthy eyes and clear vision for life, a major step you can take is to protect your eyes from UV radiation. Wearing proper eye protection from the sun reduces the risk of a number of eye diseases and other conditions that are caused or worsened by...
We all experience the occasional eyelid twitch, which is when the muscle of the eyelid spasms involuntarily. Usually, it comes and goes without intervention and while sure, it can be irritating, is a twitching eyelid ever something to be concerned about? An eyelid twitch, also known as a myokymia, can...
Infant Eyesight Despite nine months of growth in utero, babies are not born with fully developed eyes and vision - just like they can't walk or talk yet. Over the first few months of life, their visual systems continue to progress, stimulated by their surroundings. Babies will develop the ability...
It’s that time of the year again. Each February, the optometric community bands together to create awareness about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people 50 years and older; early detection plays a key role in the outcome of the disease. That’s why...
At this time of year when the sun sets early, many people are affected by night blindness. Night blindness or nyctalopia refers to difficulty seeing at night or in poor or dim lighting situations. It can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, sometimes completely benign and sometimes as a...
It’s that time of year again. January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time set aside each year to create awareness about this potentially devastating disease. The reason awareness about glaucoma is so important is because as its nickname, The Sneak Thief of Sight, describes, the disease often causes permanent...
While most people have sunglasses high on their packing list for a tropical vacation, many people don’t consider it as much of a priority for colder climate getaways. But they should, and here’s why: Wintertime vacations often include activities that involve snow and ice and in general, conditions that can...
As the season to deck the halls arrives, make sure that you aren’t one of the many people who find themselves celebrating in the urgent care clinic due to an eye injury. The holidays present many opportunities for potential eye injury so it’s important to be aware and proceed with...
The New Year is coming and many people include healthier eating and exercise in their resolutions for the year ahead. Well other than weight loss and overall health and disease-prevention, a healthy diet and regular exercise can protect your eyes and your vision. In particular, there are certain vitamins and...
November 14th is World Diabetes Day. This year, the theme of World Diabetes Day is women and diabetes - our right to a healthy future. The goal of this campaign is to promote awareness of the importance of equal and affordable access for all women, whether they are at risk...
October is World Blindness Awareness Month, an initiative started to help the public to understand the realities of visual impairment and how it affects the world population. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of millions of individuals around the world who are unnecessarily blind or visually impaired due to causes that are...
October has arrived and that means many people are already starting to plan for upcoming costume parties and trick-or-treating for the Halloween season. This is why now is the time to remind the public about some very important precautions about eye safety since there are some common costume props and...
Every good pair of eyes eventually gets old and with age comes a condition called presbyopia. Presbyopia, which usually begins to set in some time around 40, occurs when the lens of the eye begins to stiffen, making near vision (such as reading books, menus, and computer screens) blurry. You...
Even if you don’t have any eye or vision problems, the natural process of aging affects your ability to see and react to visual stimuli. It’s important to know the impact the aging can have on your eyes and vision so you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe...
Many teens who wear glasses are eager to try out contact lenses for convenience, fashion or to just provide another option for vision correction.
What’s it like to be colour blind? Contrary to what the name implies, colour blindness usually does not actually mean that you don’t see any colour, but rather that you have difficulty perceiving or distinguishing between certain colours. This is why many prefer the term colour vision deficiency or CVD...
On August 21st, for the first time since 1979, a solar eclipse will be visible across North America. What's even more historic is that it will also be the first time an eclipse will be visible across the continent, from coast to coast, since 1918. If you want to bear...
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which bright light - either natural sunlight or artificial light - can cause significant discomfort, pain and intolerance. People that experience light sensitivity will find themselves needing to close their eyes or squint when exposed to light and often experience...
What Exactly Is a Black Eye? A black eye, also known as a periorbital hematoma, is usually not an injury of the actual eye (which is why it is called “periorbital”- around the eye). It typically occurs when there is an injury to the face or the eye socket which...
According to the World Health Organization, cataracts are responsible for 51% of cases of blindness worldwide - although this blindness is preventable with treatment. In fact, research shows that in industrialized countries about 50% of individuals over the age of 70 have had a cataract in at least one eye....
You Don’t Have to Live With Dry Eyes Have you noticed that your eyes feel chronically dry, itchy, scratchy or even sometimes watery? Many people that have these symptoms just go on with their lives until the symptoms become unbearable. What they don’t realize is that these are signs that...
Eye Doctors Weigh In: How Smoking Can Harm Your Vision & Eye Health We all know that smoking is bad for you, especially the risks that it poses to your heart and lungs. What many people do not know is that cigarette smoke negatively affects your eyes and vision too. Smoking...
In an effort to spread the word to increase awareness about Sjogren’s Disease, eye care providers are speaking out about this hard-to-diagnose condition. Sjogren’s is a systemic autoimmune disorder that can affect the whole body. One of the primary symptoms is excessive dryness particularly in the eyes and mouth. Other...
Hey women! Did you know that women are more likely to suffer from vision problems and are at higher risk of permanent vision loss than men? Well 91% of the women surveyed recently didn’t know that, which means that many of them aren’t taking the necessary precautions to prevent eye...
There is nothing worse than a dirty spot on your glasses - well except perhaps many dirty spots or smudges. When that happens, most of us are tempted to grab the corner of our shirt and wipe it off, but resist the temptation - this is actually not a good...
Blue light. Do you know what it is? Do you know where it comes from, or how it can be harmful to your eyes? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you are not alone, yet it is important that you become aware to protect your eyes for...
Eye colour is a hereditary trait that depends on the genes of both parents, as well as a little bit of mystery. The colour of the eye is based on the pigments in the iris, which is a coloured ring of muscle located at the center of the eye (around...
Age-related macular degeneration is a serious condition that can threaten your vision and general well-being. Characterized by the deterioration of the central area of the retina called the macula which is responsible for focused vision, the disease gradually reduces your central vision. This affects the ability to see fine details,...
Your toddler may show every sign of good eyesight including the ability to see objects in the distance, however that doesn't necessarily mean that he or she doesn’t have a vision problem.
Make your resolution for healthy vision this year with increased awareness of the leading cause of blindness worldwide.
This is the one way you can be sure that you or your child’s eyes are truly safe during Nerf shooting:
Despite the fact that it is one of the most common eye problems, a surprisingly large percentage of patients are not aware of it.
Chances are it affects you or someone you know. November has been dedicated as a time to spread awareness about the disease, its risk factors and the effects it has on your body, your daily life and the lives of your loved ones.
Red, itchy, watery eyes and swollen eyelids (along with sneezing, congestion or a runny nose)...
Most people wouldn’t consider contact lenses dangerous. In fact, they are a great alternative to glasses, offering convenience and great vision for those who wear them. However, when not obtained and used according to an eye doctor’s instructions, the consequences can be devastating. Contact Lenses Need to Fit Like...
90%! That’s the number of sports eye injuries that studies show can be prevented using proper eye protection. Yet most sports leagues don’t require protective eyewear as part of their uniform or safety requirements. This leaves it up to athletes, parents and coaches to ensure that proper measures are taken...
It is important to teach your children about eye health and safety from a young age. This includes awareness about how your overall health habits affect your eyes and vision as well as how to keep your eyes safe from injury and infection. Starting off with good eye habits at...
Since studies show that learning is 80% visual, children with untreated vision problems can really suffer when it comes to school. Most people think that good “vision” means 20/20 acuity but in reality, vision is much more complex. Your brain is actually what completes the processing of the visual world...
We have all seen the futuristic thrillers that use high-tech eye scanning identification systems but nowadays the technology does exist to use them in real life. A greater number of high security establishments have begun to use iris recognition for identification and security systems. How does it work? The...
Whether it is the sea, the sand, the sun or the softball field, summer brings people outside and this creates exposure to a multitude of potential dangers to the eyes. One risk that is possibly the least obvious is the swimming pool. Swimming pools are the culprit for multitudes of...
After the age of 50 most people will eventually be diagnosed with cataracts. Cataracts are when the natural crystalline lens of the eyes become clouded, causing vision impairment that can not be corrected by glasses or contact lenses. While commonly an age-related condition, occasionally there are infants born with a...
According to the Vision Council’s 2016 UV (Ultraviolet Radiation) Protection report, parents are more likely to wear sunglasses (56%) than their children (only 29%!). Yet children, who spend much more time outside, are typically exposed to three times the amount of sunlight and UV radiation that adults get. This early...
UV Awareness Month: This article might scare you, and we hope it does - just enough to motivate you to wear proper eye protection against the sun. Most people are aware of the dangers ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun pose to your skin, while the long-term effects of sun...
A stye (known by eye doctors as a hordeolum) is an infection of an oil gland which forms a pimple-like bump on the base of the eyelid or within the eyelid itself. Styes can be uncomfortable, causing swelling, pain, redness, discomfort and sometimes excessive tearing or blurred vision if it...
Along with congestion, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, headaches and difficulty breathing, individuals with allergies often suffer from eye allergies or allergic conjunctivitis resulting in red, watery, itchy and sometimes swollen eyes. Just as irritants cause an allergic response in your nasal and respiratory system, your eyes also react with an...
If you are over 40 and have difficulty seeing close up, you probably have a common age-related condition called presbyopia which is when the eye’s natural lens loses the ability to focus on close objects. Presbyopia is a natural process that occurs as the eye ages and affects the majority of...
When people think of workplace dangers to the eyes, it is usually machinery, chemicals or construction materials that come to mind. However, a growing danger to the eyes is one that may be less obvious - exposure to blue light from digital devices, television and computer screens and artificial lighting....
Whether you are looking for regular prescription glasses, sunwear or protective sports eyewear, it can be tough choosing the best eyewear for children and teens. On the one hand, they need to be comfortable and provide the optimal fit for improved vision and protection. At the same time, they also...
February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month in the United States, and it’s White Cane Week in Canada. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults aged 50 and older. Awareness...
This year, make healthy eyes and vision your resolution. Find out if you or a loved one is at risk for glaucoma, and take steps for prevention. Glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable vision loss and blindness in adults in the United States and Canada and the second leading...
Refractive errors including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.
‘Tis the season for giving, and parents, grandparents, family and friends need to know how to choose toys and games that protect children’s health and eyesight.
Have you ever thought about how vision works? It's an incredible system and process!
Prevention and treatment for eye complications associated with Diabetes
Beware this Halloween and think before you blink (in decorative contact lenses that is)! Sure, decorative contact lenses can enhance any Halloween costume, but if not taken seriously, they can also cost you your vision. Whether they are sold as cosmetic lenses, colored lenses or fashion lenses, they are anything...
Home Eye Injury Awareness and Prevention
Over the centuries there have been a lot of old-wives tales circulating about eyes and vision. You know, like the one that if someone hits you on the back while your eyes are crossed they will stay that way. Unlike this example, some of these myths do have roots in...
There are thousands of eye injuries a year related to sports. According to the National Eye Institute eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in children in North America and most injuries occurring in school-aged children are sports-related. Further 99% of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented simply by...
The hormonal fluctuations experienced during pregnancy can cause many unexpected changes in your body, including your eyes and vision. Most of these changes are temporary and will return to normal once you give birth. It’s important to know which vision changes are normal for an expecting mother and which could...
A baby’s visual system develops gradually over the first few months of life. They have to learn to focus and move their eyes, and use them together as a team. The brain also needs to learn how to process the visual information from the eyes to understand and interact with...
There is a lot more that goes into finding the right pair of sunglasses than just fit and fashion. While it’s important to look and feel great in your shades, sunglasses also have the very important job of properly protecting your eyes from the sun. Here are a few facts...
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in the United States and Canada. Here are 6 things you need to know. 1. Chances are you will develop a cataract! Cataracts are considered part of the natural aging process so if you live long enough, you will likely eventually develop...
Canada Day may have passed but fireworks season is still in full swing and fireworks-related injury and death is a real and serious danger. According to the 2014 Annual Fireworks Report, compiled by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission there were at least 11 deaths and 10,500 injuries due to...
Your eyes are constantly at work for you, playing a vital role as you navigate through each day. As May is healthy vision month, here are some things to keep in mind: Know your genes While your eyes may be the same color as your father’s eyes, you may have...
According to Women’sEyeHealth.org, ⅔ of blindness and visual impairment occurs in women. Additionally, an estimated 75% of visual impairment is preventable or correctable with proper education and care. With the increased risks for women it’s critical for women to know about the risks and prevention to effectively protect their eyes...
Spring is in the air. But along with the beauty of the blooming flowers and budding trees, comes allergy season. The high pollen count and allergens floating in the fresh spring air can certainly wreak havoc on the comfort level of those suffering from allergies, causing an otherwise nature-loving individual...
Last week, people in South America, Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia and the Middle East saw a solar eclipse. As you may have heard, looking directly at a solar eclipse is very dangerous for your eyes and vision. Nevertheless, this rare event is something that many people want...
March is Save Your Vision Month, a time to raise public awareness about how to protect your eyes and your vision. Most people aren’t aware that 75% of potential vision loss can be prevented or treated. This largely depends on patients being proactive and educated about their eye health. Here...
Digital devices have impacted our world in so many positive ways, allowing us to connect, work, play and get information at the speed of light. But all of this good brings with it a measure of concern: Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome. Focusing on your vision on...
Low vision describes a set of conditions in which there is significant visual impairment which can not be corrected with traditional means such as glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery. Low vision includes a loss of visual acuity which can’t be corrected to better than 20/70, significant visual field...
Glaucoma is a serious, vision threatening disease. You can save your eyesight, by knowing the facts. Are you at risk of developing glaucoma? The short answer is yes. Anyone can get glaucoma and because of this it is important for every person, young and old to have a regular eye...
It’s that time of year again…coughs, sneezing, running noses and itchy, red eyes. How do you know when an eye irritation is something that needs medical attention? First of all, any time an eye infection is accompanied by fever, excessive discharge or pain, you should see your eye doctor immediately....
One of the most common patient complaints during the winter months is dry eyes. In the cooler climates, cold winds and dry air, coupled with dry indoor heating can be a recipe for eye discomfort. Dryness and irritation can be particularly debilitating for those who wear contact lenses or suffer...
Winter break is in a few weeks and, with college students finding their way home for the holidays, it is a good time for parents to check in and make sure their independent kids are taking care of themselves properly.Vision plays a key role in learning as well as extra-curricular activities...
November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Do you know the facts?
You may have experienced this before. Out of nowhere, your eyelid starts twitching uncontrollably. While this can be a cause of aggravation, eyelid twitches, spasms or tics are actually quite common. Here are 7 things you should know about this eye condition: Eye twitches are generally caused by a repetitive,...
October is 'Eye Injury Prevention Month' in the USA and 'Eye Health Month' in Canada. There are about 285 million people living with blindness and low vision all around the world. Children account for some 19 million of them. The vast majority of visual impairment is readily treatable and/or preventable....
The World Sight Day Challenge, slated to take place on October 9, 2014 is an annual awareness day that aims to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment worldwide. The day aims to create awareness that blindness can be avoided if there is universal access to quality vision and...
The new school year has kicked off and you can tick off purchasing all that back to school equipment. Now, it's time to think about what your child will need for after school sports and hobby activities. Making sure they have the right protective eyewear for their sporting or athletic...
This is childrens vision month. Please read on for valuable information.
A futuristic, yet simplistic, eye implant paired with a smartphone app may change the way eye doctors treat glaucoma.
School is starting: Do you know how to set up your child’s homework and reading spot? Reading and writing are some of the most fundamental skills that your child to facilitate learning in school, so it is important to make sure that your child's eyes are comfortable when they are...
Summer vacation is well under way, but did you know that even when your child is out of the classroom, vision problems can have an impact on his/her daily activities? Look out for these 4 warning signs during the summer months – they could be a sign of vision difficulties...
Eye floaters are actually more common that you may think. Many people notice specks or cobweb-like images moving around in their line of vision, at some point. Some even report experiencing a "snow globe effect" as if they are swatting at many imaginary bugs. Floaters may be an annoyance, but...
Cataracts affect millions of people nationwide and as the population continues to age, the numbers keep increasing. The good news is, cataracts are often manageable and treatable. Here are some facts you should know to help you recognize cataracts and prevent permanent vision loss. A cataract is a clouding of...
Have you ever wondered what your eyes do when you finally close them after a long day of visual processing and stimulation? Let's take a closer look at what happens behind your closed lids when your head hits the pillow. Firstly, once your eyes are closed, they do continue to...
The heat of long summer days is nearly upon us. As the sun's rays intensify and people spend more time outdoors in the sunshine it is very important to be aware of the potential damage exposure to the sun can have on your eyes. May is UV Awareness month. Here...
It can be devastating for a tween or teen to be told he or she needs to wear glasses, especially if it is sudden. Many tweens and teenagers are concerned about how glasses will affect their appearance, whether they will be made fun of (which unfortunately is a legitimate concern...
Spring is on the way. Soon the sun will be shining, the flowers blooming and allergy season will be upon us. If you have allergies, your eyes are often affected by the high pollen count along with other allergens floating in the fresh spring air. Tree pollens in April and...
Your eyes communicate much more than you may realize, in fact they play a huge role in your non-verbal communication. Consciously or not, the way you move your eyes, look at someone, blink or make eye contact can say a lot about what you are thinking and feeling. Here's a...
There are so many people who spend hours a day, if not most of the day working on a computer or mobile device. They usually do so without taking notice of the effect this has on their bodies. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can...
It's been said that your eyes are the window to your soul. Well, research is showing that your eyes are a window to a lot more than your thoughts and emotions; it can be an indicator of your overall health. A study by UnitedHealthcare entitled, “Impact of Eye Exams in...
Low vision is a condition in which an individual suffers significant vision loss that can't be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. Low vision can affect both children and adults, but is more common in the elderly, and requires significant adjustments to daily life. Here are some...
Your child's first pair of glasses will make an important difference in his or her ability to see and interact with the surrounding world. However, a new pair of glasses can also present a big adjustment for both parents and kids as you get used to a new look and...
7 Facts You Should Know About Glaucoma Glaucoma, which refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, is often called 'the silent thief of sight'. This nickname evolved because the disease creeps up unnoticed in its early stages, causing no pain and few, if any symptoms....
The New Year is a time to start fresh and renew our commitment to health, happiness and success. It’s important to include eye and vision health and safety in these resolutions. Here are the top six ways you can make your eyes and vision a priority this year. Schedule a...
The holiday season is on our doorstep. With technology so much a part of our lives, the easy go-to gifts for kids often include an enormous array of hand-held video devices and home gaming systems. Did you know that after extensive use these games can be harmful to children’s eyes...
Diabetes affects people of all ages, races and genders. An estimated 9 million Canadians suffer from diabetes according to the Canadian Diabetes Association. In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults in the North America. If you or someone you care for...
If you wear contact lenses, you probably know the hygiene routine you should follow when removing your lenses: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them on a clean, lint free cloth. Remove the lens from your eye and clean the lens immediately (if you wear multi-use...
Did you forget to put on your sunglasses today? Are you constantly sitting in front of a computer screen without taking breaks to look away? Maybe you also skipped your yearly eye exam, again. These are just some of the things we tend to overlook when it comes to our...
As Halloween approaches and costume planning gets more serious, many consider the use of novelty or costume contact lenses as a way to add that extra flair. Whether you are dressing up as a cat, a vampire, or looking for something fun that glows in the dark, dressing up your...
Many travelers experience dry eyes after extended travel by air. The dry environment of a temperature- and pressure-controlled air plane cabin can take its toll on your eyes. The good news is there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associated with travelers’ dry...
Just because the summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean that we have to say goodbye to the swimming pool. Whether it means a nice refreshing dip on a warm fall afternoon or a winter swim in an indoor pool, swimming is a great activity for both fun and...
The use of technology has become commonplace in the classroom. So much so that today’s generation of students, from kindergarten to university, navigates computers, smartphones and tablets all the time. Many schools have even implemented the use of smart boards and bring your own device (BOYD) programs. However, as amazing...
For adults over the age of 65, the right pair of vision correcting glasses can literally be a life saver. Seniors aged 65 and up are at increased risk of falling, which is the leading cause of injury, injury-related death, and hospitalization for this age group. According to the Centers...
The first weekend of August (August 3rd and 4th) has been marked as the 2nd annual Great Glasses Play Day. The event, which first launched in 2012 was created for parents, eye care professionals, educators and children who wear glasses or have other vision challenges to celebrate and create awareness...
To ensure that your eyes remain healthy, it is essential to protect them from injury and to take proper care measures if an injury has occurred. Here are a number of practical first aid tips to remember if you or anyone you know suffers an eye injury. The very first...
Eye charts of different variations have become a standard in vision screenings and eye exams. One of the most familiar charts associated with vision is the Snellen eye chart, designed by Dutch ophthalmologist Hermann Snellen in 1862 to measure visual acuity- how well you can see at various distances. Although...
Do you know that cataracts are the leading culprit of vision loss among those 55 and older? In fact, more than fifty percent of those who are 65 and older has some degree of cataract development. By the age of 80, it is likely that the majority of people will...
Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness among adults aged 50 and above? AMD occurs when the part of the retina responsible for your sharp central vision, the macula, begins to deteriorate. Central vision is the visual field...
Do your sunglasses have what it takes to protect your eyes? As the summer heats up and people spend more time outdoors, it is very important to wear UV blocking eyewear to protect against exposure to ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to your eyes. Damage caused by UV from...
Women's eyes are regularly exposed to potential irritants through the use of cosmetics. As eye shadow, mascara and eye liner can breed unseen dirt and bacteria, it is vital to ensure that the products you use to apply and remove your makeup are hygienic to prevent irritation that can cause...
Did you know that your dietary choices have an impact on your eye health and vision? Opting for appetizing food that at the same time provides you with all the nutrients that are essential for preserving your vision, is taking a major step towards minimizing the risk of eye disease...
Spring is right around the corner, as the winter begins to wind down and the fresh, warmer air begins to rear its head. Unfortunately for many, it's often hard to enjoy nature's blooming beauty as the warmer weather also brings about the onset of itchy, watery eyes that come with...
We all know how frustrating it can be trying to see clearly through a smudged pair of glasses; clean lenses can really make a world of difference. While it may not be something that you pay much attention to, the way you clean your lenses can also make a difference,...
Dry eyes are a common problem for many individuals particularly during the winter months when exposure to dry air and whipping wind is increased. However, if you are suffering from dry eyes that just won't go away, you may have what is known as Dry Eye Syndrome - a condition...
Ski Goggles are an essential part of proper eye protection when participating in winter sports. In order to choose the best winter sports eyewear for your needs it is first important to know what risks are in the first place. UV protection UV danger is just as much a problem...
Too many people are unaware of the fact that diabetes increases the chances of vision loss. Diabetes is the primary cause of loss of sight in people between the ages of 20 and 74. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is when the retina is damaged by increased...
So many people with astigmatism think they are not able to use contact lenses due to their condition. It may come as a surprise to know that there's actually a special kind of contact lens made just to correct astigmatism. The cornea of a normally sighted person is spherical, but...
There are a few tests that you have seen during an eye exam and asked yourself how they work. Having beams of light shined into your eye may be one of them. This test is called a retinoscopy examination, which is a preliminary way to determine the refractive error of...
Take a look around- you will probably find that most people - even children - are texting, playing on, surfing and even working from their mobile devices. Handheld devices, like phones and tablets are extremely handy when we're on the go. Nevertheless many people have a habit of holding their...
Many people develop problems with close vision during their 40s. This condition is called presbyopia. If you already wear glasses for distance vision, and are later on diagnosed with presbyopia, you won't have to carry a separate pair of reading glasses. Multifocal lenses, which correct problems with both near and...
Many our younger patients exhibit the symptoms of a lazy eye. Amblyopia forms when vision in one eye is suppressed. This can occur if a child can't see well through one eye because of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, or something that's limiting vision in that eye. Usually, eye patches are...
If you've got an eye exam penciled in for some time in the near future, there are ways to be extra prepared for it. There are a few things you should inform us of to help make sure your exam is a useful one. Because eyes can be affected by...
Everyone has found themselves in a dark room, at one point or another, whether it be during childhood, due to a power outage, or just waking up in the middle of the night. After a few moments you can see again. This process, ''dark adaptation,'' causes our vision to see...
Did you ever wonder why older people prefer larger font sizes? Because as you age, your eye's lens is likely to become more and more inflexible, making it less able to focus on handheld objects. We call this presbyopia. And, it's something that eventually happens to us all. Often, to...
It's of paramount importance to know what sorts of toys are the safest and the most beneficial for kids. Children are born with a partially developed visual system which forms throughout their early years with the right stimulation. Few things stimulate a child's visual development better than play, which involves...
It's hard to believe that summer's just about over. Boys and girls across the country are preparing for the next school year, equipped with backpacks, notepads and a whole lot of anticipation. This is the ideal opportunity to take your son or daughter to an eye exam, if you haven't...
When a child has a hard time at school, it isn't always a learning disability. You may be relieved to know that he or she could be suffering from a hidden but very real vision issue, which effects learning. It's known as Convergence Insufficiency (CI). To explain, CI is a...
You have most likely run into the expressions 20/20 vision and visual acuity. As frequently used as these terms are, do most people actually know what they mean? 20/20 refers to the sharpness of eyesight measured at a distance of 20 feet. When you have 20/20 eyesight, that means that...
Have you thought about trying coloured contacts? Well, there are plenty of colour contact lenses available to subtly intensify or radically alter your eye color. There are so many colored lenses available today, so you'll be sure to get just what works for you. It doesn't matter if your eyes...
Inflamed eyelids, also known as blepharitis, is something that a lot of people experience at some point during their lives. It's a common eyelid inflammation, often associated with a bacterial eye infection, certain types of skin conditions, or dry eyes. Common symptoms include redness, itching, burning, a gritty sensation in...
Have you ever left your disposable contact lenses in for a little too long? It's a fact of life that lots of things are in in top form when they are fresh. You won't be surprised to hear that the same principle can also help you understand how often you...
Everyone is regularly exposed to UV rays. But the potential dangers of years of exposure to these unsafe rays aren't really thought about, and the majority of people take little action to guard their eyes, even when they're expecting to be out in the sun for long periods of time....
It's May, and that means that it's Healthy Vision Month. When was the last time you had a comprehensive eye exam? Having your eyes examined periodically is one of the most effective steps you can take to guarantee your eyes remain healthy. During the session, your eye care professional checks...
In patients, whether young or old, sometimes poor vision can be caused by a few factors including anatomical changes in the eye or visual system, diseases affecting the eye, side effects of medicine or injuries to the eye. Many people also report visual disturbances associated with age or eye stress....
Women go through many changes during their lifetime. Each change could affect her vision differently. Eye disease among women is becoming more common, more notably in aging women. In fact, studies show that the majority of women aged 40 and above experience some degree of eyesight impairment, and risk developing...
When the springtime comes, along with a greater opportunity to engage in a new set of sports, comes an increase in the risk of eye injuries caused by sports accidents. Each season, many children and adults sustain sports related eye injuries that could be prevented with suitable safety measures and...
Excellent eyesight is necessary for road safety. Actually, staying safe on the road requires a number of visual abilities - for example, being able to see both far ahead as well as your immediate surroundings, side or peripheral vision, seeing in limited light and color vision, plus many others. Distance...
The workplace can be a harmful place for your eyes. It is important for both corporations and their employees to be knowledgeable about workplace eye safety and how to prevent work related eye injuries. Every day, employees sustain workplace related eye injuries that need medical attention. Workplace safety experts and...
Surrounding your pupil and iris is your cornea, which is, under normal circumstances, spherical. When light enters the eye from all angles, part of the job of your cornea is to focus that light, directing it at your retina, which is in the rear part of your eye. But what...
Pink eye, otherwise known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye infection, particularly when it comes to kids. This infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses or allergies to ingredients found in cosmetics, pollen, and chlorine in pools, or other chemicals, which come in contact with your eyes. Many forms of...
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of loss of vision in individuals aged 65 and over. AMD is characterized by a degeneration of the macula in the eye which functions to allow sharp vision in the center of your field of view. Signs of Age...
Contact lens wearers practice proper eye care. A study performed by Bausch & Lomb this past summer revealed that an alarming number of people were using dangerous lubricants rather than lens solution to keep their lenses moist. Everything from baby oil, to coke to petroleum jelly was reportedly used as...
Dry eye syndrome is common during the winter as a result of the presence of cold, dry air.
It's official! Winter is here, which means in some places bitter cold winds and freezing rains and sometimes snow aren't far behind. The majority of us would never even conceive of leaving the house without a coat in icy conditions; nevertheless surprisingly, many people don't think to take their sunglasses....
As January marks National Glaucoma Awareness Month, in this article we are here to stress the importance of knowing about the threat of this vision threatening disease. Glaucoma is a category of progressive ocular diseases that damage the optic nerve, which may be a precursor to a permanent loss of...
Visit your North Vancouver, BC Eye Doctor to Learn More About Treatment Options Presbyopia is a visual impairment related to age in which close range vision becomes significantly diminished. With the increasing worldwide population of older adults, more and more people are developing the condition, which currently cannot be escaped....
The holidays are just around the corner and we all know what that means, Erector Sets for some, and Barbie dolls for others. Well meaning relatives delight in surprising the young children with the coolest toys for the holiday season. It is important that family members explain to others the...
Need a new pair of specs? Thinking your contact lens prescription has changed? Considering refractive surgery? This is the time to take care of your eye care needs. As the year's end comes near, so does the end of your flex spending dollars. If flex spending doesn't strike a familiar...
Visit our North Vancouver, BC Optometrist for an evaluation
50% Off Designer Frames (with the purchase of prescription glasses)
Did you know that diabetes is the main precursor to blindness for adults of all ages? If not, you are not alone. As of 2008, over four million men and women in North America afflicted with diabetes were found to have diabetes related blindness. Of this number, seventy thousand suffered...
For adequate sight, the eyes and the brain need to function in cooperation. When this system breaks down, a condition called amblyopia, or lazy eye, can occur. In the majority of instances of lazy eye the eyes themselves are usually in good health but visual acuity cannot be achieved by...
Have you ever wondered why 20/20 is the standard for ''perfect'' vision and what it truly stands for? The term 20/20 vision expresses normal visual acuity or sharpness of vision. That is to say that someone with 20/20 vision can clearly see an object at a distance of 20...
As the end of summer approaches, many individuals start to experience symptoms of ragweed allergy or hay fever. In addition to nasal symptoms such as sneezing and congestion, symptoms that affect the eyes can severely impair one's ability to go about one's normal functions. Symptoms of ocular allergies include...
Halloween is a night for getting out and getting dressed up but you don't want the fun to lead to some scary eye damage. A popular costume accessory in recent years has been decorative contact lenses and the trend is causing serious concern amongst optometrists. Contacts are an FDA...
Findings from the American Optometric Association indicate that over seventy percent of the Americans that work daily on a computer (over 140 million individuals) experience computer vision syndrome (CVS) or eye fatigue. Prolonged computer use can cause eye stress and impact eyesight in children as well as adults. Anyone...
In recognition of Home & Sports Eye Safety Month, this post will focus on ways to keep your home safe for your eyes particularly for children. Don't wait until it's too late to make sure your home environment is safe for your kids' eyes. Naturally, babies are born with a...
For those who wear contacts a number of guidelines should be followed when applying cosmetics. Below are some tips for ways to be sure you keep your eyes beautiful and healthy. Which Makeup Are Best for your Eyes? To start, we recommend that you purchase only brands that are free...
Individuals who have regrettably gotten sunscreen in their eyes know firsthand just how excruciating it can be. In fact, someone who has experienced a severe case may say that it is a good alternative to carrying around mace or pepper spray. It can take hours before the victim can comfortably...
Many people aren't aware that cataracts are the primary cause of blindness for adults over the age of 54. In fact, over half of individuals over sixty-five have some amount of cataracts. What are cataracts? A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens. This prohibits the passage of light...
It's that season again, when the days begin to get shorter, the weather a bit chillier, and kids everywhere head back to school. It's also the time to ensure your kids' vision is healthy. Healthy vision is critical to the learning process and accomplishments in the classroom. There are numerous...
No teen wants to be seen in something that makes them different, and for a lot of adolescents, eyeglasses can often seem that way. The mere thought of ''four eyes'' can send a teenager panicking. As opposed to eyeglasses, children and teens who switch to contact lenses feel a significant...
There are many different types of eye accidents that can occur, some more serious than others. Some might necessitate emergency treatment and immediate care by an optician, while others can be taken care of at home. Follow these guidelines for typical eye injuries, to decide the next step in case...
When we have healthy eyes, we may miss the importance of a routine eye examination. Nevertheless, timely detection of any eye or vision problems is crucial to maintaining healthy vision and eyes. This can easily be done with an eye test. Many eye and vision ailments are a-symptomatic. Consequently, individuals...
Now that the summertime is here it’s time to ensure you defend your eyes from summertime hazards. Here are some tips to safe in the sun: Make sure your glasses have 100% protection from UV rays. If your sunglasses don’t guard against 100% of UV rays, they may be causing...
Did you know that each year around 40,000 sports-related eye injuries are severe enough to necessitate emergency room treatment? This is the equivalent of an accident every 13 minutes! Eye Care experts believe that the vast majority of those injuries would have been simply avoided by wearing proper eye protection....
We have all been told that carrots improve your eyesight, but is this really true? Eye care professionals say that regardless of how many carrots you eat, they can't actually improve your vision. However, they are rich in beta-carotene, a vitamin that is very good for your eye health and...
Due to measures to increase knowledge of the threats of Ultraviolet (UV) exposure to your skin, (such as sunburn and skin cancer), most are aware of the importance of applying sunscreen and using other forms of sun protection when spending time in the sun. But how many of us...
Contact lenses require proper handling to be considered a safe and effective choice for those requiring corrective eye wear. Improper care can lead to damaged contacts, or even worse, eye infections or scratches, which on occasion results in vision loss. People of all ages that are not ready to...
Although you may be most accustomed to soft contact lenses, another lesser-known kind of contact lenses exists: rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses, sometimes referred to oxygen permeable lenses. In truth, GP lenses involve newer technology than soft lenses, which are longer-lasting, offer greater vision quality, and provide enhanced...
If you are experiencing red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes you may be suffering from pollen-induced eye allergies. For many of us, spring time is pollen season, which means uncomfortable symptoms such as itchy eyes, watery eyes or stinging, red eyes. Springtime eye allergies are often a result of...
Even though you may refer to winter as the wet season due to the rain and snow, the atmosphere is actually more dry during the colder months, which can cause your eyes to become more sensitive. Our optometry staff can help you find the best ways to keep your eyes...
February is age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision awareness month. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading source of vision loss for senior citizens. Macular degeneration can result in low vision, a term eye doctors use to refer to significant visual impairment that cannot be corrected by usual measures...
To spread the word about the ''sneak thief of sight,'' January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness, responsible for 9%-12% of all cases of complete vision loss in the United States and effecting nearly 70 million people worldwide. Because glaucoma has no early...
You read it correctly. Sunglasses aren't only an essential accessory in the sunny season. Although many of us are informed of the damage the sun presents to our eyes in the summer, how many realize that we need to take precautions in the winter as well? In truth, the UV...
New Options to Look Good and See Better
Fill in your patient history online, before your next appointment. Find out how...