Stay Informed with the Blog from Optometrists Clinic Inc

When wearing contacts, you may notice increased eye sensitivity while working at your computer. Staring at a screen all day reduces your blink rate and causes you to blur and refocus your vision often, leading to dryness, irritation, eye strain and fatigue. Here’s what you need to know about computer vision syndrome (CVS) and how you can alleviate the symptoms.

Ready for an updated look? A new pair of trendy eyeglasses can set you apart from the crowd. This year, classic looks with modern features are in style, and so are some unique designs to add panache to any ensemble. Here’s a roundup of trendy glasses for 2023.

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that, if left untreated, can cause permanent vision loss. Like most eye conditions and diseases, knowing the early warnings of retinal detachment can help you get treatment before it’s too late. Here’s what you need to know about retinal detachment.

Alcohol consumption can lead to more than blurry vision and bloodshot eyes. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol over time can lead to temporary or permanent vision loss. Here’s how alcohol affects your vision and eye health.

Did you know dry eye disproportionately affects Albertans due to the cold, dry winters? The cold temperatures and lack of moisture in the air can make your eyes feel dry, itchy and sensitive to light. Consequently, it’s important to give your eyes extra care and attention during this time of the year.

Some symptoms of menopause are well known, like hot flashes, sweating, insomnia and depression. Another symptom, perhaps lesser known, is dry eyes. This condition affects more than 60 per cent of perimenopausal and menopausal women, especially in dry climates like ours in Alberta. Here’s some information on menopausal dry eyes, plus tips on managing the condition.

Your eyelids protect your eyes from contaminants and keep them moist. Because the eyelid tissue is delicate, it’s vulnerable to painful or uncomfortable conditions. Here’s an overview of the four most common types of eyelid conditions and how they can be treated.

It’s normal to occasionally experience red or bloodshot eyes. Here’s what you need to know about this harmless occurrence and how to determine if eye drops are right for you.

You undoubtedly understand the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, while you may have heard about blue light, are you aware about how it can affect your eyes? Here’s what you need to know.

Accommodative esotropia is a common vision problem in children. One eye turns inward towards the nose, giving the child a cross-eyed appearance. It can affect a child’s self-esteem and ability to perform in school and is alarming for parents. Fortunately, accommodative esotropia is one of the most easily treated pediatric eye conditions.

Before you reach for the tweezers or mascara, think about the function your eyebrows and eyelashes serve. Believe it or not, these seemingly random hairs on your face play a vital role in protecting your eyes. Here’s how.

Refractive errors are a common cause of blurred vision. They happen when the shape of the eye changes and fails to bend the light entering the eye correctly. Here are the common types of refractive conditions and how to treat them.

Rubbing your itchy eyes may bring momentary relief but can damage your eyes. Here are five reasons you should never rub your eyes and what to do when you feel irritation.

LASIK eye surgery has improved the vision of millions of people ever since Health Canada approved the first laser eye surgeries in 1990. Today, LASIK — an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis — is a standard treatment for nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. If you’re considering LASIK surgery, here’s some information on how it may help you see better.

As you age, your eyes age with you, which means the prescription eyeglasses you bought a couple of years ago may no longer be the right prescription for you. In fact, wearing an old prescription can do you more harm than good. Here are some signs it’s time to ditch your specs for an upgrade.

Ever wonder what it takes to be an eye doctor? When you visit a clinic for a general eye exam, you can rest assured the optometrist you meet is qualified to diagnose any eye disease and committed to your eye health. Getting qualified to practice demands many years of expensive education, clinical experience,  and national and provincial examinations. Here’s what it takes to become an optometrist in Canada.

We see the devastation of climate change all around us as violent storms, prolonged droughts, wildfires and flooding become more common. Another effect of climate change you may observe is literally in how you see. Does the environment affect your vision? Scientists and doctors are increasingly finding evidence that climate change negatively impacts eye health. Here’s how.

Your eyes can reveal a lot about your general health. Besides eye diseases that can severely harm your vision, a general eye exam may show if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or even cancer. Here are some of the health issues your eyes can reveal.

Children are resilient, but not when it comes to their eyes. We all need protection from the sun’s harmful rays, but children need it more than adults. That’s why sunglasses for children are so essential for their long-term ocular health. Here’s why parents should purchase a quality pair of sunglasses for their kids.

Your eyes are one of the most sensitive organs in your body, so you need to be careful when wearing contact lenses. However, too many lens wearers fail to follow the instructions or develop bad habits that can hurt their eyes. Here are five contact lens mistakes you should avoid.

Although many people associate sunglasses with the hot, sunny days of summer, the reality is that protective eyewear should be worn throughout the year, even in winter. Here are four reasons you shouldn’t leave the house without a pair of sunglasses, no matter the time of year.

A new pair of glasses lets you see the world more clearly, especially if they’re your first pair or your prescription has changed drastically. 

Online eye tests allow you to determine your prescription and purchase glasses from the comfort of your own home. However, getting your eyes checked in front of a computer is very different than a face-to-face exam with an eye doctor. In fact, online vision tests come with many risks. If you’re considering one, here’s what you should know.

Eyelid twitching, also known as myokymia, is an involuntary spasm of the lower or upper eyelid muscles. Most people will experience myokymia at some point in their lives, and it usually goes away on its own. However, there are times when eyelid twitching can signify a more serious medical condition. Here’s when you should worry about eye twitching.

People often turn to eye drops as a solution for dry eyes, red eyes or allergies. However, you can purchase eyes drops that contain a variety of medicinal ingredients. Here’s a list of eye drops and some information about different kinds of eyes drops and which ones may be best for you.

Detecting vision problems early in life can help preserve your eyesight and prevent vision loss. In fact, some eye conditions have no early warning signs. Therefore, it’s critical to see your optometrist every one to two years. However, some eye conditions cause unpleasant symptoms. Here are five you should never ignore.

Astigmatism occurs when a part of the eye has an irregular shape rather than smooth and symmetrical. The result of such an irregularity is that light entering the eye isn’t reflected as it should, which causes objects both near and far to appear fuzzy or blurred. Fortunately, once diagnosed by an optometrist, the vision issues created by astigmatism can be easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Here are five facts about this eye condition you should know.

As you age, your body can change in a number of ways. Some of the most consequential of these changes pertain to your vision and eye health. Though not all age-related eye problems are inevitable, it’s important to be aware of some of the most common issues that can arise. Here are three ways your eyes can change as you age.

A lens coating is a treatment for glasses that’s added to improve the performance, appearance and durability of your eyewear. There are many different types of coatings, each with its own benefits. While some may be included in the price of your prescription, others are add-ons that will cost you extra. Here’s what you need to know.

Prescription eyewear can be a considerable investment, and both glasses and contact lenses can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. In addition to the financial burden, it often takes time to find the perfect frames or lenses. Fortunately, proper care and maintenance can help you protect your investment and extend the lifespan of your eyewear. Here’s some advice on how to take care of your prescription glasses and contacts.

Your eyes need nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to function. Consequently, eating a well-balanced diet can help keep your eyes healthy. Here are some of the best foods for your eyes.

Eye strain is a common condition that causes your eyes to feel tired and sore. The symptoms usually occur after looking at a computer screen for extended periods, driving long distances or reading for many hours. However, doing eye exercises help alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of eye strain. Here are five eye exercises you may want to try.

Natural blue light is all around you every day. However, in the digital age, the average person’s eyes are exposed to excessive amounts from phones, laptops and other devices. Recently, sales of blue-light-blocking glasses have exploded, as people have become interested in protecting their eyes from their screens. If you’re considering purchasing a pair of these specialty glasses, here’s what you should know before you decide.

A quality pair of sunglasses can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. Here are some factors to consider when purchasing your next pair.

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions in Canada. So common, in fact, that you or someone close to you will probably develop it during your lifetime. This condition occurs when proteins cloud your eyes’ lenses, making it difficult to focus. The condition is manageable and easily treated. However, it’s important to know the following six facts.

Halloween can be fun for children and adults alike, but some costume components are dangerous for your eyes. Here are some tips to keep your peepers safe. Plus, if you or your child wear glasses, we have some fun costume ideas.

If your child has vision problems, wearing glasses can be a simple solution to help ensure they don’t fall behind in school or miss out on activities. However, actually getting kids to wear their glasses may be easier said than done. That’s why the team at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. has put together these five tips for parents.

There are a lot of old wives’ tales about the ability to see. You’ve most likely heard a few of them. However, it’s important to be able to separate fact from fiction — especially when it comes to your health and ability to see clearly. Here’s a look at five common myths about vision and the corresponding truth you should know about.

Are you looking for a new pair of glasses? With so many options available, selecting a pair of frames can be overwhelming. However, understanding certain factors will help make deciding easier. Here are three things to consider when choosing frames for your glasses.

Wearing a face mask can help prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. However, they present certain challenges for people who wear eyeglasses. This is because when you wear a mask, your breath escapes through the top and collects behind your glasses. Condensation occurs when the warm air of your breath hits the cool surface of your lenses, causing your lenses to fog up. 

If you wear glasses, you’ve likely experienced this phenomenon. Fortunately, there are things that can help prevent your lenses from fogging. Here’s what you should do: 

The beach is a great place to relax and enjoy some time outdoors. However, it’s important to be careful to protect your eyes as the exposure to sunlight can damage them. UV rays can impact your vision and increase your chances of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. So, if you’re planning on heading to the beach this summer, follow these tips to keep your eyes protected.

As you prepare your kids to head to school this fall, remember to consider their eye care needs. Approximately 25 percent of all school-age children have vision problems. If left undiagnosed, these issues can interfere with learning and participation in social, physical and educational activities. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of vision problems lead to improved learning outcomes. Here’s how you can get your kids’ eye care needs taken care of before school starts.

Though there’s no cure for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), there are things you can do to help prevent it. This eye disease eventually causes the central portion of the retina to deteriorate. Consequently, it can lead to permanent vision loss. AMD usually affects people who are 60 and older. As the name implies, the disease gets progressively worse over time. Here are a few ways you can prevent or slow the progression of AMD.

Vision develops in babies gradually, and they only become accustomed to focusing their eyes and processing visual information over time. Therefore, their ability to see is something that’s learned, much like walking and talking. Here are some critical milestones in the development of your baby’s vision.

Smart contact lenses may seem like something straight out of a science fiction movie, but researchers are currently developing prototypes. In fact, scientists are continually working on technological advancements to improve the lives of people with vision problems. Here's what you should know about smart contact lenses.

The pandemic has put a strain on nearly every aspect of our lives, including our eyesight!

With more and more people transitioning to remote work environments, more time is spent staring at the harmful blue light of computer screens. While you may or may not prefer remote working or learning, there's no doubt that lockdown eye strain is real.

If you're interested in learning more about how to avoid lockdown eye strain and protect your eyes, we're sharing some key things to know about eye strain. Just keep on reading!

Pool season is just around the corner! While swimming is a great way to have fun and stay in shape, it can be harmful to your eyes. That's because many swimming pools contain chlorine and other harsh chemicals that can irritate your eyes and even lead to an infection.

Here are four easy ways to protect your eyes when enjoying the pool this summer:

When used correctly, over-the-counter eye drops can help soothe eye irritation, redness, and swelling to help you maintain healthy vision. Here’s a short guide to three types of eye drops and when it’s appropriate to use them.

Just like your skin, your eyes can get sunburned from too much exposure to UV rays. This painful condition is called photokeratitis and typically causes the corneas of your eyes to become inflamed.

Most people experience itchy eyes at some point in their life. It’s a common ailment that can be attributed to several different factors and is usually easy to treat. Here are five of the most common reasons why you might be suffering from itchy eyes.

It can be difficult for children to realize or express that they’re experiencing vision problems. That’s why, as a parent, it’s essential to be on the lookout for signs that your child may be struggling to see.

As you get older, you may experience vision problems as your eye tissue weakens and deteriorates. In fact, it’s estimated that one in nine people develop irreversible vision loss by the age of 65.

Did you know that the colour of your eyes is determined by how much melanin you have in your irises?

Seasonal allergies can make spring an unpleasant time of year for many people. What’s more, those who wear contacts have to contend with the discomfort of allergens in the air sticking to their lenses. 

Tear ducts are part of the system that allows tears to drain from your eyes. If one of them is blocked, your tears won’t drain properly. This can make your eyes watery and irritated. Here’s what you need to know about this condition.

You often hear about the importance of taking care of your heart, lungs, kidneys and liver, but it’s equally important to look after your eyes.

Have you ever noticed dark spots or lines drifting in your vision?

Whether you have a workshop at home or spend a lot of time on construction sites, safety glasses are an essential item in your toolbelt.

Contact lenses can be a fantastic alternative to glasses. 

If you’ve never had an eye exam before or you haven’t seen an optometrist in years, you may be wondering what to expect.

Many people haven’t been taught how to put the drops in their eyes correctly, leading to wasted product.

“If you keep crossing your eyes, they’re going to stay that way!” It’s something many parents tell their children, but is it true?

Did you know that more than two million Canadians have some type of colour-blindness? Until recently, there wasn’t much that could be done for people with this condition.

If you need eyewear to correct your vision, you’ll likely be able to get a prescription for either glasses or contact lenses.

Ocular health refers to the proper functioning of the structures in and around your eyes. This includes good vision and the absence of disease. Here are five tips to help you maintain lifelong ocular health.

Do you have doubts about getting contact lenses? Perhaps touching your eyes makes you uncomfortable or you worry about losing a lens in your eye.

If you have perfect vision, making regular appointments with your optometrist may be something you neglect to do. But annual eye exams aren’t just for those with existing vision problems.

Do you experience dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain after working or playing in front of a computer screen or using other digital devices? If so, you’re probably experiencing computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain.

Edmonton winters can be rough and, for people who wear glasses, there’s the added nuisance of constantly dealing with foggy glasses. When cold glasses come in contact with significantly warmer air, the surrounding moisture condenses into water droplets that fog up your lenses.

Cataracts, a common eye condition that’s typically caused by aging, can lead to vision loss and in some cases, blindness. A cataract is a clump of proteins that develops in the lens of the eye. Early symptoms include clouded vision, difficulty seeing at night and seeing halos, among others. While there are treatments available, there are also a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them in the first place. Here are five health habits that can protect your eyes from developing cataracts.

Your eyes have an excellent defense system in place that protects them from environmental damage. Your eyebrows and eyelashes serve as a barrier against dust and dirt, your eyelids blink to keep out foreign objects, and your tear ducts produce a film that coats them. However, your peepers remain sensitive organs and can still be affected by the environment around you. Here are some things that may be damaging your eyes.

If you have diabetes, your doctor may have told you to schedule annual eye exams. This is because diabetes can cause a number of eye complications.

Did you know that pregnancy can cause changes to your vision? 

Low carbohydrate and low glycemic index diets have been around for decades. 

Glaucoma affects over 60 million people worldwide and is the second leading cause of blindness. While it’s been long known to be hereditary, a new American study reports a link between sleep problems and glaucoma.

Sneezing, itchy throat and runny nose aren’t the only symptoms of seasonal allergies, commonly referred to as hay fever.

Many people don’t think past the frame when choosing sunglasses. However, the right lens will ensure that your eyes are protected from the sun’s harsh rays.

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is more than a smart move. It’s also an opportunity to express your personal style. Here are the top five sunglasses trends for the summer of 2019.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, better known as dry eye disease, is a chronic condition that affects millions of people.

While you can pick up a pair of shades from nearly any drugstore, it’s best to buy your sunglasses from an optician. Here’s what you should know.

Do you notice strange spots in your vision that seem to drift slowly around and then dart away when you try to focus on them? You may have eye floaters.

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the thin layer of clear tissue over the eye called the conjunctiva. It is the most common type of eye diseases seen at Edmonton optometrist clinics. 

Just like other parts of the human body, the eyes are susceptible to infection from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Not sure exactly what an eye infection might look or feel like? 

Did you know that pediatric eye exams are covered by the province of Alberta. Learn more about infant eye development and when you should bring your baby in for their first eye exam with us!

Considering contact lenses? Daily use, disposable lenses are growing in popularity. Find out more about them in our blog from your local Edmonton optometrists!

Ask Your Edmonton Optometrist About the Difference and What it Means for Your Eyes!

These are the common symptoms and causes of problematic night blindness. Contact your eye doctor in Edmonton for more information and treatment options.

Your eyes are more than just the “window to the soul.” They provide valuable insight into your health and have the power to radically improve your quality of life.

The eye is a delicate organ, and problems with any of its sophisticated parts can end up affecting your vision.

Start the school year off strongly by ensuring your kids are as prepared as possible to succeed in school. Schedule a back to school eye exam at our clinic in Edmonton.

Our office carries stylish frames from the hottest designers. Learn how to choose the right style of eyewear for your face today!

Our optometrist explains the causes, symptoms and treatments available for macular degeneration.

We become much more active during the summer which means our eyes are exposed to different hazards and irritants.

Learn More from your Edmonton Eye Care Professionals

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of presbyopia and how your local Edmonton optometrist can help you.

For many of us, 40 is the age when taking greater care of our health is no longer just an option but an absolute necessity.

Isn’t it wonderful to say goodbye to the winter finally? The sun shines bright again. The days are increasingly longer and hotter.

According to Statistics Canada, 94% of Canadians between the ages of 15 and 34 owned a smartphone in 2016. Although some generation gaps persist, internet and computer use are increasingly common in our society.

As any optometrist in our Edmonton clinic can tell you, although there are some hereditary factors involved, worsening eyesight as we get older isn’t always just about chance. In fact, there are many behaviours and habits that can hurt your eyesight as you age.

The decision to wear contact lenses can be exhilarating. If you have been using eyeglasses for a long time, you may be eager to trade the experience for the convenience of contacts. However, you might also have some questions about wearing this product that is new to you.

Contact lenses are an amazing solution for vision correction that can make life easier in a variety of ways. They provide a level of convenience that countless individuals find to be indispensable.

Being diagnosed with astigmatism brings up numerous questions. What is it? Will your vision be permanently affected? Are there treatments available? Will it cause pain?

When you are deciding whether to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, or to alternate between wearing both, you must consider a variety of factors. Do you want to wear prescription sunglasses? Do coloured contacts appeal to you? Are disposable contacts more appropriate for you than monthly contact lenses?

With the winter months upon us, numerous Canadians will be taking advantage of vacation time to visit family and friends, as well as to travel to other places. If you are planning a vacation this winter, you will need to pack according to your chosen destination. If you are going on a ski trip and staying in a cabin in the mountains, you will require warm clothing and accessories. A trip to a sunny island or other tropical location may involve beach gear and other warm-weather items.

Snow blindness is a serious condition caused when eyes become sunburnt from overexposure to UV rays. Learn the proper methods to prevent and treat this condition.

Make a commitment to your eyes this new year by trying out some of our resolutions to promote eye health. Many of these work hand-in-hand with other health-related resolutions.

With overcast skies and flurries falling, it is easy to see why so many people forget the importance of eye protection and eyewear when they plan for a day of winter sports. Whether you are headed out skiing, prefer snowboarding, or are bundling up for a day of hiking, don’t forget your sunglasses in Edmonton. Some eye protection can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the activity and how well your eyes feel after a long day outdoors. Maintain your eye health and protect your vision with the proper eyewear.

Netflix brings you endless access to movies, your favourite TV shows, and even original content exclusive to their service. You might turn it on during the day for the youngsters, or spend a relaxing evening catching up on an entire season of your favourite show in the dark. But while it is convenient, how is all that Netflix action impacting your eyes?

The nerd, the sophisticate, the fashionista, and the sportsman. These are just some of the personas we take on when we wear our sunglasses and eyewear.

Your eyeglasses serve an invaluable purpose, and they should endure for a long time. Although you may need to get your prescription changed on occasion, you should still get much use from each pair you buy.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you know how they can wreak havoc on your body. Allergies can also affect your eyes. You may even have experienced some symptoms with your eyes and not realized they were related to allergies.

Eyewear has served as one aspect of history in many ways. From the spectacles that the American statesman, Benjamin Franklin wore to the famous glasses worn by the musician, John Lennon, eyewear has characterized numerous historical figures over the years.

Your eyeglasses enable you to view the world the way you are meant to see it. They also help you to perform crucial functions, such as reading and driving. Unfortunately, if you have the wrong prescription, you will not be able to see and function optimally.

People who were once called a “nerd” or “four eyes” are getting the last laugh as eyeglasses have become a hot fashion item that is in high-demand. Despite more and more options for comfortable contact lenses, safe corrective vision surgery, and other discrete options for clear vision, people are opting for stylish, bold frames and proudly wearing their eyeglasses. Some are even seeking out frames they don’t need and wearing them as a statement without a prescription. Whether you have been wearing your spectacles for life, are jumping on the trend, or have just discovered you need your first pair of eyeglass frames in Edmonton, you may be curious about what goes into making these flexible, sturdy, and lightweight items.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you stay in Edmonton or visit other places in the next few months, you will probably spend some time in the sunshine. Getting some natural vitamin D is healthy, but you must also take specific precautions against sunlight.

A huge variety of eye glasses frames and styles are available. Many people are now using eyewear, prescription or otherwise, as a defining element of their personal style. For most individuals, however, eye glasses and contact lenses are a crucial part of being able to see their surroundings and navigate through the world. If you require eyewear for vision correction, prioritize your prescription and the comfort of your glasses before you let trends or appearances dictate your choices. Using an outdated prescription can lead to more eye strain and discomfort. Sacrificing your routine eye exam can lead to undetected disease which can lead to long term damage.

Not all eyes are made equal. Among humans, there is a huge variance in sight ability and special concerns. From colour blindness to depth perception and visibility, there is no way to truly know how another person sees the world. You may be able to swap eyeglasses for an idea, but it will not give you the full picture when it comes to differences in visual function. When you compare across species, it becomes easier to recognize differences and more difficult to imagine the experience.

Labour Day is not far away, and that means preparing to go back to school. Just as you must stock up on school supplies, you will also need to prepare yourself for being back in school. If you wear eyeglasses, that means replacing your eyewear if necessary. Going to classes and studying for exams are activities that require your full attention, and that includes the continuous use of your eyes.

Many people take their glasses for granted. The seemingly simple tool does a lot for wearers, but has come a long way from its early beginnings. Two arms, two lenses, and what has evolved into many diverse fashion statements have taken years to become what we understand as spectacles today. Whether you have had your pair for years or just got your first prescription, a look back at history will make you appreciate your eyewear even more.

A lazy eye is a common ocular issue that many individuals have. Typically impacting one eye, this condition is also known as amblyopia. If you have a lazy eye or believe your child may be developing one, visiting your optometrist in St. Albert or scheduling an eye exam in Edmonton can provide answers and treatment options for stronger vision and visual control.

Your sight is an important part of your comfort, enjoyment, and ease when getting through the day. As we get older, caring for eyewear can become a more difficult task. Thankfully, with support from your St. Albert optometrist, caring for your eyes and eye glasses does not need to be an extensive or lengthy process. Factor a few minutes into your daily routine or weekly schedule and enjoy secure, safe, and effective eyewear in Edmonton.

You just hit 45, and for the first time, you can no longer read the tiny instructions on your medicine bottle. In fact, your eyes feel strained just when you’re reading a book or working on a computer. You’ve never needed glasses before. You wonder, “Are these changes normal?” and “What should I do about them?”

During the summer, many of us are careful about exposure to UV radiation. We slather sunscreen on our skin while at the lake, and shield our eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses. However, why don't we do the same during winter months?

When winter comes around we tend to forget about UV rays because it is cold outside. In recent years, doctors have warned skiers to wear sunscreen while on the slopes to protect their skin from sunburn – but what about our eyes?

Some world changing icons who wore glasses:

• Steve Jobs
• Martin Luther King
• John Lennon
• Malcolm X

In addition to being well known, these people have one other trait in common: they all had signature eyeglasses. When you imagine these people without their spectacles, it feels as if an essential element of their personality goes missing. Glasses became part of their persona.

Pink-eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is the most common eye infection affecting children and adults alike. It is characterized by a red, mildly irritated eye and can be very contagious. Fortunately, pink-eye is easily treatable, and does not cause any long-term damage to the eye.

As the pollen, dust and dander start kicking up outside, so do your allergies. While some people just suffer from sneezing or the occasional stuffy nose, others have allergies that affect their eyes as well, thus making spring time miserable. If your redness and itching become severe or you notice a puss-like discharge from your eyes, get an eye exam right away. It is not uncommon for people to mistake an infection for allergies.

If your child requires eyeglasses but plays sports, you may think your only option is to switch to contacts while they are playing. Contacts are sometimes challenging for young children to use and depending on the type of sport, they may cause more of a hassle. Instead of worrying about breaking expensive prescription glasses, ask your optometrist about sports glasses instead.

We live in a world driven by information. Unfortunately, not all of the information that drives the world is completely true.

Rumours fly, and myths thrive, around any subject you can think of – vision and eye care are no exception.

If you're familiar with red, itchy, or swollen eyes, you might have eye allergies (also known as allergic conjunctivitis). These uncomfortable symptoms can make a sunny day miserable and, depending on what causes your allergies, you might not even find relief indoors.

A visit to the optometrists’ office can be exciting. You could leave your appointment with a new look, more knowledge about your eye health and, most importantly, clearer vision. For some individuals, however, these appointments may also be stressful. Particularly for people with extra-sensitive eyes or those on a tight budget, a visit to the eye doctor may seem like an uncomfortable or costly experience. Checking your insurance before your next optical exam can help ease your concerns and help you budget properly when selecting your new eyeglasses or sunglasses.

More and more people are buying their eyeglasses and contacts online to take advantage of free shipping and cheaper prices. While it can be tempting to order online and save a few dollars, be aware that there is more at risk than an unflattering frame. Keep in mind the following pros and cons before choosing how to order your next pair of glasses.

Your child has been to the optometrist, and now you need to tell her that she needs glasses. You might feel apprehensive about the conversation, so you mull over possible ways to let her know about her eye condition. Then, as you tell her, you frantically try to analyze the reaction forming on her face.

Sunglasses are more than just fashion accessories; they are an important component to maintaining eye health. The sun contains ultraviolet rays and if you do not protect your eyes, those rays can cause irreversible damage. If you already wear prescription eyeglasses, visit your optometrist to get fitted for sunglasses as well. That way you can have clear vision while protecting your eyes.

Often people will not notice when their vision has changed. Small warning signs are often brushed off during a busy day and forgotten until they progress to a more serious stage.

Contacts are a popular option for individuals who require vision correction. With new technology, they have become easy to use and comfortable to wear. They provide the same results as glasses while offering a natural look and a great option for athletes. Whether you wear your contacts for daily use or while participating in sports, it is imperative to follow the instructions for the type of contact lenses you have been prescribed.

If you’re wondering at what age your kids can start wearing contacts, you’re not alone. Many parents ask us this very question every day. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. we often tell kids and adults alike that there isn’t a specified minimum at which one can start wearing contact lenses. Your eye doctor in Edmonton may even tell you that in some scenarios, babies and toddlers wear contacts. However, that doesn’t mean every child is a good fit for wearing contacts. Here’s what you need to know.

If you’ve ever used a View-Master—a popular toy amongst children since the 1960s—than you’ve had at least one experience with 3D glasses. Of course, you might have also used old-school red and blue lensed eyewear—or the now more common polarized glasses—to view a 3D movie here in Edmonton. Whatever your personal experience with 3D glasses, the history, the mechanics and the experience of using them is fascinating.

Growing up, we all heard how important it was to take our vitamins. As we age, it remains an important part of staying healthy and supporting strong functioning throughout our body. Your eyes, in particular, can benefit from a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, getting the daily recommended dose of so many different vitamins and minerals can be very challenging. That is why ocular vitamins are so vital to maintaining good eye health. Not sure what role ocular vitamins can play in your optical and overall health? Read on or visit your Edmonton optometrist for an eye exam and to learn more.

Carrots are an amazing food – it’s a root vegetable that is rich in beta-carotene, a naturally occurring pigment that nourishes the eye. For centuries, carrots have been connected with health benefits. In the Middle Ages, carrots were believed to cure anything from sexually transmitted diseases to snakebites. Carrots became associated with vision, particularly night vision, during World War II when the British Royal Air Force published a story that said skilled fighter pilot John “Cats’ Eyes” Cunningham could thank a steady diet of carrots for his night vision flying prowess.

Invest in a pair of prescription safety glasses to protect yourself at the workplace, during sporting events or for weekend DIY projects at home. Healthcare experts say that wearing the right type of protective eyewear can prevent 90 per cent of eye injuries.

When was the last time you had an eye exam? A comprehensive eye checkup is just as important as your physical examination and an essential part of healthcare. Your eye doctor in Edmonton will conduct a detailed examination to determine if you need prescription eyewear, and also check for ocular health problems such as Glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, etc.

Statistically, the average adult human body is 50 to 65 percent water. When it comes to our vision and eye structure, water is a critical component. Most of the eye is filled with a substance like jelly called the vitreous humour, while the front of the eye is filled with a clear fluid called aqueous humour, which is more watery (humour meaning fluid).

You've just arrived home from a busy work day. As usual, your eyes are red and blurry. You also feel the beginnings of a headache, so you just want to sit quietly for a few minutes with your eyes closed.

Another normal day? Perhaps. But if you stare into a computer screen all day long, your symptoms might be hinting at more than simple fatigue. You may be dealing with Computer Vision Syndrome.

In 2013, nearly 2 million Canadians (cited from: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/tables-tableaux/sum-som/l01/cst01/health53a-eng.htm) suffered from diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is primarily diagnosed in children and young adults, while type 2 diabetes strikes adults later in life. Type 2 diabetes often starts with such mild symptoms that adults don't notice them. Diabetes left undiagnosed and untreated for a long time can increase their risk of developing complications later on.

While an ideal situation would involve our vision remaining 20/20 for the entirety of our lives, the harsh reality is that it usually deteriorates with age. The majority of the world’s population will, at some point or other, experience a decline in vision enough to require the use of glasses or contact lenses. Thankfully, corrective lenses are no longer viewed as undesirable. Modern society has normalized these vision aids to the point that they are now considered fashion accessory must-haves.

Sometimes people experience vision changes that glasses or contact lenses cannot correct. If your vision is becoming increasingly blurry and you are noticing more glare, you may have a cataract. It is important to see your optometrist to determine the cause so you can get the proper treatment.