I am due for some new glasses, but I recently also got hearing aids. What features should I be looking for when I shop to avoid having problems with these two medical appliances competing for space on my head? Answer: Accommodating both glasses and hearing aids is definitely a common fitting challenge, and there are […]
Ask the Doctor: Lens materials for sunglasses
With summer coming I have started looking for new sunglasses and I am unsure about what lens material is best for me. Why would I choose plastic over glass, for example? So, you’re planning to invest in new sunglasses! Protecting your eyes from ultraviolet radiation with good quality sunwear is a fantastic idea. Let’s talk […]
Ask the Doctor: First Eye Exam
Question: I have never had an eye exam before. What sort of tests can I expect at my first appointment? Answer: It’s completely understandable to have questions before your eye examination, especially if you’ve never had one before. Let me walk you through what a typical comprehensive eye exam might look like. We’ll start with […]
Ask the Doctor: Eyelash Extensions
I am considering getting eyelash enhancements of some sort for my upcoming wedding. What are the pros and cons of the various options from a health perspective? Answer: Since the fashion for dramatic eyelashes has grown exponentially, I have noticed a corresponding increase in questions about the relative safety of various lash enhancement options. Unfortunately […]
Ask the Doctor: Alzheimer’s Disease & Eye Health
Question: It’s been noted that, in addition to the impact on cognitive function, Alzheimer’s disease may also affect eye health. Could you elaborate on that? Answer: First, it is important to mention that while connections between Alzheimer’s disease and eye health have been noted, they do not imply a causal relationship. The exact mechanisms underlying […]
Ask the Doctor: Polarized vs Non-polarized sunglasses
Polarized vs Non-polarized sunglasses Question: I have noticed some premium brand sunglasses are polarized and some are not. I thought polarized lenses were supposed to be better. Why might someone choose a non-polarized lens even at a higher price point? Answer: So you’ve noticed some high-end sunglasses aren’t polarized, and you’re wondering why. It’s a […]
Ask the Doctor: How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses for Your Lifestyle
Question: I am thinking about getting back into wearing contact lenses for certain social and sport activities after taking a break from them for many years, but there are so many more options with disposables than before. How do I know what type of lenses I should get? Answer: There are definitely a multitude of […]
Ask The Doctor – Do all optometrists have the same qualifications?
I was wondering: if all optometrists in town have the same qualifications, does it really matter which doctor I see for my regular eye check-ups? Answer: Optometry has been a regulated profession in BC since 1921, and while it’s true that to practice here all optometrists in the province have to meet rigorous standards and […]
Ask the Doctor – I am going overseas for my summer holiday. What are some tips for taking care of my eyes while I travel?
Answer: Good for you for thinking ahead! There are many strategies you can use tominimize the chances of having an eye-related medical mishap while on vacation. Atleast a month before you leave make sure that you obtain copies of any prescriptionsfor eyewear and medications that you use, and have on hand all the contact lenses,prescription […]
Ask the Doctor – What is the difference between prescription reading glasses and over-the-counter reading glasses?
I have never worn glasses before, but since I have had a few anniversaries ofturning 39, my eye doctor has now written me a prescription for glasses,including an “addition” for seeing up close. My friend insists that the magnifiersfrom the drugstore work just fine for her and I would be wasting my money. Whatis the […]
