Lethbridge Vision Care

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Signs it’s time to visit the optometrist

“Go to the optometrist.” Maybe you’ve heard this and thought it was okay to ignore it, especially if you feel like your vision is fine. But maintaining good vision is essential to maintain your quality of life, and seeing your optometrist regularly protects not only your vision but also your health.
The Alberta Association of Optometrists recommends that adults see their optometrist every one to two years, while children and seniors should be examined annually. If you haven’t booked an appointment recently, keep reading for some additional signs that you should move this task to the top of your list, and make time to visit your optometrist for a comprehensive exam.
Why is vision health important?
Your eye health is crucial for maintaining your ability to see clearly and comfortably. Having your eyes examined regularly can help to identify issues early and prevent damage to your vision. Your eyes can also provide insight into your overall health, and your optometrist can identify many health conditions just from looking at your eyes! Seeing your optometrist is important, even if you don’t have any particular concerns—but if you’ve experienced any of the following, make sure you book an appointment as soon as possible.
Blurred vision
If you experience blurry vision, you should visit your optometrist. Things like difficulty in focusing or having objects appear fuzzy or out of focus could indicate problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Your optometrist can conduct a series of tests to determine your visual acuity. We’ll make recommendations if necessary to correct your vision, which could include wearing glasses or contact lenses. If you experience blurry vision that comes on quite suddenly, it could indicate a more serious problem, so seek medical care immediately.
Eye strain
In today’s digitally driven world, there are lots of activities that could contribute to your eyes becoming strained. Mobile devices, reading, video games, computer use—all of these can cause your eyes to become tired and irritated. Try adjusting how close you hold your screens to your eyes, and limit the amount of time you spend looking at screens. Reducing screen use as much as possible can make a difference to your eye strain. If you still experience symptoms of eye strain, they could be caused by an underlying issue or dry eye syndrome. Your optometrist will evaluate your visual needs and recommend appropriate measures such as prescription glasses, contact lenses, dry eye treatments, or lifestyle modifications to alleviate eye strain and improve visual comfort.
Eye pain
As a general rule of thumb, if something is constantly hurting, you should have it checked. Persistent itchiness, grittiness, pain, or the feeling that something is stuck in your eye should be evaluated by your optometrist. These symptoms can be signs of conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, allergies, or more serious conditions like glaucoma. Your optometrist will be able to identify the root cause of your symptoms and make appropriate recommendations to restore your comfort.
Sensitivity to light and night
If you find yourself increasingly sensitive to light, or are constantly squinting and shielding your eyes or even needing to wear sunglasses indoors, you should visit your optometrist. Possible conditions include corneal abrasions or scratches that can also make your eyes feel gritty. Hazy, cloudy vision or difficulty seeing at night may be a sign of cataracts.
Visual disturbances
Visual disturbances are things like floating spots, light splotches, double vision, or even cloudy vision. Sometimes these symptoms can arise if you have spent a great deal of time in the sun or otherwise strained your eyes, but if they’re persistent, they can be a sign of a more serious eye condition. You could be experiencing a retinal detachment or macular degeneration. If you experience a sudden increase in eye floaters, flashes of light or darkening of your vision, call your optometrist immediately or go to the emergency room.
Colour abnormalities
Are you having trouble distinguishing colours? This could be a sign of vision problems like cataracts or optic nerve damage. Determining the degree of and reason for your colour perception changes can be difficult, but it is important to get to the bottom of it by booking an appointment to see your optometrist.
Changing eyes
You know your eyes very well, which means you’ll be the first to notice any changes in the way they look. This could include changes to the colour of your eyes, dots in your eyes, or excessive swelling or redness. Sometimes these changes have a simple explanation and an easy fix. Other times, they can be a sign of a serious underlying problem. It’s better to be on the safe side and get your eyes checked by your optometrist.
Your 40th birthday
Don’t get offended! We aren’t calling you old, but after age 40, there’s a good chance your vision will begin to deteriorate. The changes in your vision likely won’t be extreme, and they may have even happened so gradually that you won’t notice. Subtle signs of changing vision could be needing additional light while reading, needing to hold text closer or further away, and even headaches after reading. This could be a sign of presbyopia or other age-related vision problems. Book an appointment to get your eyes checked if you’ve hit this milestone birthday.
While these are some of the more common indications that something is troubling your eyes, there are many others that you might not even notice. Regular comprehensive eye exams will enable your optometrist to detect early signs of any conditions that could impact your vision and even help to identify other health concerns like high blood pressure or diabetes. That’s why it’s important to make an appointment to see your optometrist regularly, even if you feel like your vision is okay.
At Lethbridge Vision Care, we offer comprehensive care for the whole family. Whether you’re due for an annual exam or experiencing a change in your vision that you want to have checked, book an appointment to see one of our skilled optometrists, and rest easy knowing that your vision needs are in good hands.

July 17, 2023
Keeping your eyes safe from cosmetic products

Makeup, skincare, hair products: chances are all of these have a few of these in your bathroom cabinets. They help us look and feel our best, and they’re becoming increasingly popular. The cosmetics industry grew 15% just last year!
Not only are these products becoming more popular, but they are also becoming safer. There is a movement towards “clean” products that don’t have some of the dangerous ingredients, like talc.
But this doesn’t mean that all cosmetic products are now totally safe, especially when they have the ability to get into places they shouldn’t be. When we use cosmetic products, we run the risk of getting them in our eyes, which are very sensitive. This can cause irritation, infection, or even long term complications.
Makeup is one of the main offenders when it comes to cosmetic-related eye complications. After all, there are few products we put closer to our eyes. To avoid any issues, you should always avoid sharing mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. These products can hold onto bacteria, and sharing them with friends or family could spread eye disease and infection. Never put makeup directly in your eye; instead, carefully apply it outside of the lash line. Bacteria grows easily in wet environments, so products like mascara should be replaced every three months.
When it comes to products that you apply to your face, it’s best to follow similar rules. Be wary of applying face makeup with dirty hands, especially if it’s creamy. Products can easily slide into your eyes and cause irritation. You should also avoid putting skincare products with harsh chemicals near your eyes. These products can get in your eyes and cause irritation to delicate skin surrounding them.
One of the best parts of cosmetic products is getting to test out and play with new ones. However, you should use caution when it comes to eye products. Never share testers at the store, and go slowly even when trying new products at home. Allergic reactions are a common occurrence that can be painful and wreak havoc on your eye health. Aim to only introduce one new eye product at a time, testing it out in a small area. This way, if a reaction does occur, you’ll know for sure what caused it and can better identify which ingredients might be the issue.
If you experience an allergic reaction, talk to your optometrist the next time you see them. They will be able to tell you about other similar ingredients that may cause a reaction. Additionally, they may know of products that could offer a good replacement option.
Removing cosmetics at the end of the day is a whole other challenge. When you take off makeup and skincare products, you run the risk of getting products in your eyes. Always remove your eye makeup at the end of the day, because not doing so can result in serious infection or conjunctivitis. To take eye makeup off, you can use a special remover or even baby shampoo as a gentle option. When washing your face, avoid scrubbing. Harsh scrubbing formulas can scratch your eyes. Instead, opt for a gentle, unscented cleanser.
If you do end up with cosmetic products in your eye, what should you do? If you wear contacts, take them out right away, as makeup can get stuck behind them. After this, flush your eyes out with tap water. Once you feel you have everything out, use some lubricating drops to soothe your eye.
If you notice your eyes are constantly irritated, it could mean that some of your cosmetics have become an issue. Start by replacing your eye makeup, and if the problem persists, slowly replace whatever else may come in contact with your eyes.
If you’re not careful, cosmetics can pose a risk to your eyes. But with the proper practices and care, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to play and experiment with new products. If your eyes are always sensitive, it could be a sign of an underlying issue like dry eye disease. Our experienced optometrists will be able to diagnose and treat this issue.

July 11, 2023
Help combat dry eyes with your diet

Here at Lethbridge Vision Care, we’re dry eye experts. We offer a dry eye clinic that specializes in treating dry eyes, and we’ve helped countless patients prevent dry eye syndrome from recurring.
Dry eye syndrome is caused by a variety of factors ranging from low quality tears, to hormonal changes, to environmental factors. It can make your eyes feel gritty, itchy, and, of course, dry! If you’re suffering from dry eyes, the only way to get them totally under control is by seeing an optometrist. Our expert attention will ensure that you get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
However, there are also some easy ways you can alleviate dry eye symptoms or help to keep your dry eye syndrome from recurring. Surprisingly, the food we eat can affect how our eyes feel. Nutrition is an important factor in eye health. Making sure you’re consuming foods that nourish your eyes can be just as important to eye health as getting your regular exams. They say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” but in this case, it’s more like “an Omega-3 fatty acid a day keeps the optometrist away”.
Incorporating these foods into your diet helps to provide essential nutrients that support eye health and alleviate dryness:
Fish
Fish is a health food favourite. It’s packed with loads of vitamins and nutrients that provide various health benefits. For your eyes, fatty, cold water fish provide the best benefits. Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce eye irritation and promote tear production.
Omega-3s also help maintain the integrity of the eye’s oil film, preventing excessive evaporation and dryness. Aim for two servings of fatty fish per week to reap the benefits.
Leafy greens
Don’t forget to eat your greens! Leafy greens are another food that have endless health benefits, and can be especially great for your eyes. Kale, spinach, swiss chard, and romaine lettuce are packed with nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin.
These nutrients can help protect your body’s fats and proteins, which means eyes that are more protected. Bonus! They are also known to slow down the formation of cataracts.
Vitamin C rich fruits
Oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes are all known to be chock full of vitamin C. If you find citrus fruits too sour and tangy, you can try papaya, pineapple, or mango. Vitamin C is a must-have for maintaining eye health and preventing dry eyes.
Why? This vitamin helps to maintain healthy blood vessels, including those that supply the eyes. Adequate vitamin C intake can help reduce the risk of developing dry eyes and slow down the progression of existing conditions. Enjoy these fruits as a refreshing snack or include them in salads and smoothies.
Nuts
Nuts are high in Omega-3, much like fish, making them a great choice for vegetarians or for people who don’t like seafood. People with aging eyes should also incorporate nuts into their diet. When our eyes age, our tear production is impacted. Nuts can help to combat this, thanks to the complex fats and nutrients they contain. Nuts also contain vitamin E, which plays a critical role in protecting eyes from free radical damage.
Avocado
Avocados are a health food staple, and it’s not just because they taste amazing. Avocados are full of complex vitamins and nutrients many people are deficient in, including vitamin B6, magnesium, folate, and potassium. These all play a role in tear production.
For example, magnesium and potassium are both vital to the production of electrolytes. Without these components, your tears may not be able to keep your eyes adequately moist.
Water
Ok, ok, this isn’t a food, and you’re probably sick of being told to drink more water. However, drinking enough water helps maintain the moisture levels in your body, including in your eyes. Staying hydrated can prevent dehydration, which often contributes to dryness and discomfort. Drinking water is a must for anyone who suffers from dry eyes.
It can be difficult to know how much water you should be drinking. The general recommendation is to drink six to eight 250 ml glasses a day. You may need to drink more water if you live at a high altitude, exercise a lot, or drink caffeinated beverages. Follow your thirst, which may be an indication that you’re already becoming dehydrated.
Ensuring you incorporate foods with nutrients that are beneficial to your eye health and hydration can help you to alleviate dry eyes, and reduce the risk of a dry eye syndrome recurrence. If you are suffering from dry eyes, it’s important to make an appointment with one of our optometrists who can effectively address the root cause with a comprehensive treatment plan, and give you more tips on how to protect yourself from the irritating symptoms of dry eyes!

July 4, 2023
Summer break is a great time for kids to see an optometrist

School’s out for summer! Who doesn’t love the feeling of so many empty weeks stretching out before you, just waiting to be filled with adventures? Summer break is a perfect time for kids to explore and grow. But it’s also a good time to check in on their health and put a plan into place for their continued academic success this September.
If your child hasn’t had a comprehensive eye exam recently, now is the time to book one. Scheduling appointments when children are relaxed can help to make the experience more positive. And if they do need new corrective eyewear or an adjustment to their existing prescription, a summer appointment can ensure they’re set up with the right lenses to return to school in the fall.
At Lethbridge Vision Care, we love helping children see their best! The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) covers yearly eye exams for all children under the age of 18. Here are some of the many reasons we recommend making sure you book an annual exam for your child:
Early detection
Many vision problems in children can go unnoticed as they may not realize they have an issue, or might not be able to express what it is. Regular eye exams enable us to detect vision problems early. This could include issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or lazy eye. Identifying these issues early is crucial so that we can implement successful treatment, prevent further complications, and ensure your child’s continued success at school and in their activities.
Academic performance
Too often, a child’s poor performance at school isn’t recognized as being connected to a vision problem, but good vision is essential for optimal learning. If a child isn’t able to see well, it can significantly impact their ability to read, write, and comprehend information. Yearly eye exams are necessary to help them achieve their academic potential, by enabling us to identify any potential vision-related barriers to their learning. Once these are addressed, your child will be better positioned to succeed in school.
Eye health monitoring
Eye exams don’t only assess visual acuity. They’re also an evaluation of the overall health of your eyes. We can detect conditions like eye infections, allergies, or even serious eye diseases during routine examinations. Early detection means early treatment, which can prevent long-term damage to eyes and promote healthy visual development in children.
Behavioural issues
Has your child been struggling with a behavioural issue? Have you ever considered that it may be vision-related? Some children with undiagnosed vision problems exhibit issues like poor attention span, frequent eye rubbing, squinting, or headaches. Their inability to focus in a classroom could be mistaken for a different behavioural concern. Make sure your child is screened annually for vision issues that might be contributing to concerning behaviours. Intervention can lead to better overall well-being and enhanced quality of life.
Eye safety
Children are accident prone! This also makes them prone to eye injuries during play and sports activities. Regular eye exams allow for discussions about eye safety and appropriate protective measures. By educating children about eye safety, we can help to prevent eye injuries and protect their long-term visual health.
Healthy habits
We love when children are introduced to regular eye exams early on. It helps them to understand the importance of maintaining good eye health throughout their lives. We can teach them healthy proactive habits that protect their vision, which leads to better overall eye health in adulthood.
At Lethbridge Vision Care, we’re committed to providing comprehensive eye exams specifically tailored to children. Our friendly and experienced team creates a comfortable and child-friendly environment, ensuring that the examination process is positive and stress-free.
By scheduling an eye exam for your child this summer, you’ll be taking a proactive step towards safeguarding their visual health, academic success, and overall wellness. Don’t wait for potential visual problems to hinder your child’s development. Invest in their future by prioritizing annual eye exams. We’ll make sure their vision is healthy and their corrective eyewear prescription is accurate, so that they’re all set to hit the books again this September!

June 30, 2023
How virtual reality and artificial intelligence are affecting our eyes

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, you’ve probably heard about artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR). Tech giants promise that these emerging technologies will be all the rage in upcoming years, infiltrating a broad range of industries and activities.
Virtual reality and artificial intelligence have been available in private settings for years, but now they are becoming available to the public. Systems like ChatGPT and VR gaming headsets are already changing the way people work and live.
Now with Apple’s announcement that they will be releasing their Vision Pro headset, we are sure to see more people than ever using VR and AI in their daily lives.
If you’ve seen images or demos of VR technologies, you know that VR systems are headsets that go directly over the eyes and almost look like oversized swimming goggles. There’s been a lot of talk about how screens affect our eyes and vision, so it’s natural to wonder, are these new VR systems safe for your eyes?
Optometric concerns about VR headsets
Most of the concerns over VR headsets and vision come from their proximity to the eye. Typically VR headsets have two small LCD monitors, with one focussed on each eye. While optometrists recommend that we hold our smartphones an arm’s length, these LCD screens are mere centimetres from our eyes.
This makes it very likely that people will experience some kind of eye strain. Even if VR headsets make you feel like you’re looking at something very far away, the physical reality is that these screens are incredibly close to your eyes.
If you decide to buy a VR headset, it’s important that you limit its use and that you add its usage to your total daily screen time. It’s unlikely that VR headsets would cause long-term symptoms and eye problems for most people, but eye strain is very likely. This could make it harder for your eyes to focus and adjust after extended periods of VR usage, and it could even lead to dry eyes. You may also notice eye strain more quickly while using other screens like smartphones and computers. If you work with screens daily, it’s especially important that you don’t overuse your headset.
Because of the eye strain possibilities associated with VR headsets, most of them come with warnings about limiting use for children whose eyes are still developing. If you decide to gift one of these headsets to your children for gaming or other fun activities, it’s important to take these warnings seriously so they don’t develop any kind of eye fatigue or vision problems.
VR headsets offer promising treatment options
Many optometrists warn against extended VR headset usage. But, the good news is that studies have found VR headsets can actually be used to treat or improve some existing eye conditions. While it’s not yet common practice, there have been some exciting breakthroughs, and we look forward to keeping our eye on these developments!
Some VR systems have been developed to help treat amblyopia. VR can force both eyes to engage with visuals and stay active equally. This therapy encourages patients to use their weaker eye, which can gain strength over time. VR treatment is especially exciting for children with amblyopia, as they often don’t want to wear patches or suffer through eye drops.
And it’s not just amblyopia that VR headsets have shown exciting improvements for – systems have also been created to help restore eye coordination, reaction time, and depth perception.
All of these applications require further clinical testing, but the results have been promising so far. Many people have been able to restore control over their eyes and perception thanks to VR headsets. It’s important to note, however, that even people wishing to regain eye strength won’t want (or need) to wear VR headsets for more than an hour a day. Even for treatment, VR use should be limited.
AI’s role in optometry
AI is being used to track and even predict certain vision conditions. That’s right – through the use of AI, we’re finding ways to predict eye deterioration that hasn’t happened yet. New research by DeepMind in London has found that by scanning eyes, AI is able to detect eye problems and help diagnose patients.
Like with VR eye correction, this approach is only in the experimental phases. But both show exciting results and could become standard practice if the research continues to go well.
It’s common to feel nervous about the role artificial intelligence and virtual reality will play in the future and the way they will affect long term human health and development. When it comes to eye health and optometry, virtual reality headsets could pose a threat to comfortable vision. Long-term wear is likely to cause eye strain that may lead to more serious problems like dry eye. However, both VR and AI have shown promising results in helping to diagnose and correct vision problems.
Optometry is an ever-evolving medical practice that is always incorporating exciting new technologies. Hopefully, AI and VR prove to be powerful allies in the fight against vision deterioration and eye disease.

June 13, 2023
How to protect your eyes this summer

Summer is around the corner that means vacations, pool and lake days, and lots of sun! It’s a great time of year, but it can be tough on your eyes, so it’s important to protect them from the effects of the sun.

Before you head outdoors, here are a few tips to help you avoid damaging your eyes this summer.

Wear sunglasses and a hat

One of the easiest ways to protect your eyes and the delicate surrounding areas is by putting on something that can physically shield them from the sun. That means a hat and sunglasses!

Sunglasses are vital for protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. When choosing a new pair of sunglasses, make sure they block out 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses can also help reduce glare and provide better visual clarity, especially around water. It’s important to note that darker lenses do not necessarily provide better UV protection. Instead, look for quality sunglasses that fit properly, are comfortable enough to wear all the time, and that block out UV rays effectively.

Combining sunglasses with a hat ensures you the most optimal protection. Hats will not only protect your eyes from the overhead sun, but will also shield you from glare off of water.

Avoid peak hours

The sun is at its strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If you can, avoid being out in the sun during these hours. If you must be outside when the sun is at its strongest, it’s a good idea to regularly assess how your eyes feel. Over-exposure can lead to sunburn on your eyes, which can be painful. Sun exposure can also lead to the development of cataracts and other vision problems.

If you’re spending extended periods of time in the sun or on the water, take breaks to rest your eyes to prevent eye strain and fatigue, as well as reduce the risk of developing dry eyes.You should be especially careful if you have lighter coloured eyes. And always make sure your sunglasses are handy!

Keep your eyes well hydrated

When your eyes are dry, they’re more likely to burn and become damaged. Make sure you stay hydrated while you’re out in the sun. You might also want to consider using hydrating eye drops after a long day outside. If you feel persistent dry eye symptoms during the summer months, ask us about other dry eye treatments we offer. You may have an underlying condition that contributes to your dry eye symptoms that can be diagnosed and treated.

Avoid getting sunscreen in your eyes

Sun isn’t the only thing that can irritate your eyes in the summer. So can the chemicals in sunscreen, especially if they are already feeling the burn from harsh UV rays. Natural tear production can help flush out any irritants.

Don’t use spray sunscreen on your face as it can easily get into your eyes while applying it. Instead, use a mineral-based sunscreen that can lessen eye irritation and will be less likely to run into your eyes when getting in and out of the water.

Use waterproof eyewear

If you do a lot of swimming in the summer, you might also find that the water can be irritating to your eyes. Chemicals like chlorine, bacteria in freshwater lakes, and even salt in saltwater can all cause irritation.

This doesn’t mean you have to avoid having fun in the water, but you should be mindful of keeping water out of your eyes. Wear waterproof eyewear like goggles or a mask that can help prevent eye problems and infections caused by exposure to irritants.

If you can’t wear goggles, there are other ways you can avoid getting water in your eyes. Wicking water out of your eyebrows and eyelashes can keep it from dribbling down into your eyes. Try not to rub your eyes after being in water, as this can shove water deeper into your eyes.

Regularly visit an optometrist

If you experience persistent eye irritation or discomfort after sun exposure, swimming, or sunscreen use, it’s important to give us a call or book an appointment. Our team can help you determine if any treatment is required and assess if your eyes have suffered any damage.

Summer is a fun and exciting time, but it can also be harsh on sensitive eyes. Be sure you and your family are using adequate protection like sunglasses, and take care to prevent irritants from entering your eyes. And of course, if you ever have any concerns about your eye health or vision, just give us a call at Lethbridge Vision Care. Our team of optometrists is always ready to help you see your best, no matter the time of year!

May 12, 2023
The intriguing history of how corrective lenses developed into what we know today.

Who hasn’t sat on a pair of glasses or dropped their disposable contact lenses onto the floor after a long day? We tend to take our corrective lenses for granted. These days, it’s easy to walk into an optometrist to get replacement contacts or glasses, but this wasn’t always the case. It took thousands of years of ingenuity and innovation to get corrective lenses to where they are today.

Ever thought about the long history of how your eyeglasses came to be? Here’s a rundown of the highlights – from looking through rocks to looking though all the online options we have today!

Early attempts at vision correction

Believe it or not, even ancient cultures knew a thing or two about how lenses could improve sight. Egyptians used chips of rocks and obsidian in order to better see small objects, and in the 12th century, transparent stones were used in China as sunglasses. The magnifying glass was officially invented in England around 1250 and was used to view small objects and make text clearer.

Italian style

13th century Italy is where eyeglasses as we know them today really began to take form. Glass blowers in Venice started experimenting with glass lenses that could alter vision. They were attached to the wearer’s head with leather and bone frames. You may even recognize a 1352 painting named “Portrait of the Cardinal Hugh de Provence” that depicts a monk using these early glasses to write a manuscript.

As these glass-blown glasses became more popular, inventors began to look at ways to improve their function. By the 17th century, concave and convex lenses were being developed that corrected both near- and farsighted vision.

Additionally, modern frames were invented that allowed glasses to be hooked around the ears and balanced on the nose. Many craftsmen added engravings, mixed materials, and unique shapes to the frames, giving wearers a more customized look.

Double duty

Benjamin Franklin is most famous for being one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, but did you know that he also invented the bifocals? Like many people, he began to suffer from both near- and farsightedness as he aged and became annoyed by constantly having to switch between glasses.

In 1779, he came up with the solution to create glasses that had a split lens. One half of the lens allowed him to see up close and the other far away. These are now known as bifocals and they’re still used today to correct vision problems associated with age.

But what about contacts?

Glasses weren’t the only type of corrective lenses going through a period of invention. In 1508, Leonardo Da Vinci sketched an idea for corrective lenses that would sit directly on the eye. It wasn’t until 1887 that a German glass blower named F.E Muller was able to use this idea to create lenses that were actually comfortable to wear. They were made of thick glass and caused more irritation than the contacts we know today, but the contact innovation had begun!

Bringing corrective eyewear to the masses

Even though little changed about the shape of eyeglasses over the following centuries, cost continued to be a big barrier to mass popularity. Because the price of glasses was so high, only members of the upper class could afford to wear them.

This all changed with the industrial revolution, when the invention of powered machines allowed companies to produce eyeglasses in large quantities. Glasses were still an expensive item, but middle class families were now able to afford them.

While glasses were becoming available to the masses, innovations to contact lenses were happening behind the scenes. Optometrists were working hard to improve safety and comfort. In 1929, a Hungarian physician named Joseph Dallos found a way to take molds of the human eye, drastically improving the fit and comfort of contacts.

Our plastic world

Finally, in 1936, American optometrist William Feinbloom created contact lenses made from plastic. These plastic lenses were more comfortable and posed less of a chance of scratching the wearer’s eyes. Feinbloom’s contacts proved that the contact lens design was a viable method of vision correction.

Newer lenses were developed in the 1960s using a water-absorbing plastic known as Polymacon, which became widely available around the globe by the 1970s.

The innovation didn’t stop here. Disposable soft lenses entered the market in 1987, and it seems there’s no turning back. These lenses are easier on the eyes and more convenient than any earlier contacts, and remain popular to this day!

Seeing our way into the future

Optometry is an ever-evolving field, with new innovations constantly making clear vision more comfortable and convenient. Surgery, implants, and other cutting-edge technologies continue to improve the way we see.

Thanks to the amazing discoveries made through history, people who need corrective lenses now have dozens of options to choose from – often right at their fingertips through the ease of online ordering.

If you’re looking for stylish, effective vision correction, Lethbridge Vision Centre offers modern options that maximize comfort and convenience. Who knew your daily vision correction had such an interesting history?

May 2, 2023
Why myopia is increasing in kids

Coffee, check. Laptop, check. Eye drops, check. This probably sounds like a familiar routine.

Dry eye syndrome is increasingly common in adults, especially as the time we work on screens increases exponentially. In fact, we posted a recent blog on this already. But kids are also experiencing changes in their eyes and vision that are likely a result of how much time they spend on screens – even years before they hit the workforce.

If you’ve noticed that your child complains more often about headaches, rubs their eyes frequently, or exhibits signs of blurry vision (like being unable to read a whiteboard), it’s possible that they have myopia.

While myopia, or nearsightedness, is not related to dry eye syndrome, it’s quite possible that the root cause is the same: increased screen time.

So what’s the answer? At Lethbridge Vision Care, we’re skilled at treating patients of all ages and identifying any conditions that may be preventing optimal eyesight. As we continue to see a rise of myopia in our younger set, we have some recommendations to ensure your kids are properly assessed, and that you’re doing what you can to prevent the development of this condition.

What is myopia?

Myopia results when the axial length of the eye is elongated, causing light to refract inaccurately. Basically, the shape of the eye changes, making clear vision more difficult. It often begins in childhood, affecting about a third of kids by adolescence, and optometrists are noticing that the number of affected youth is increasing. While genetics certainly play a role, it’s likely that environmental factors are also contributing to the problem.

Myopia is commonly known as nearsightedness, meaning that closer objects appear clearly while those further away may be fuzzy. Some of the signs and symptoms include blurry vision, squinting, eye rubbing, and headaches, as mentioned above.

Myopia isn’t a particularly alarming condition, but it’s interesting to note that while experts aren’t yet certain of the cause, it appears that increased screen use and time spent on close-up work is making myopia more common than ever before.

Can it be prevented?

The suspected link between myopia and screen use means that we may be able to take some measures to prevent it, even if we can’t overcome the genetic link.

Break often. When working on screens or doing other work that requires you or your kids to focus on something up close, make sure that you take frequent breaks. This can help your eyes to readjust their focus. It also provides the added bonus of encouraging more frequent blinking, which helps to keep eyes moisturized.

Get outside. Spending time outdoors changes the distance at which we’re typically focussed and can help to prevent changes in the eyes’ shape that lead to myopia.

Limit screen time. While you can’t always avoid using screens, limit the amount of time your kids spend on screens recreationally.

What are the treatment options?

Thankfully, treatment options for myopia are easy and non-invasive.

Wear eyeglasses. One of our highly skilled optometrists can assess your child’s eyesight and eye health, and determine whether or not prescription glasses are necessary. We may recommend that they be worn more or less often, depending on the severity of your child’s myopia.

Choose well-fitting frames that are comfortable for your child to wear, including during activities. You may want to add a strap, especially for younger children, or explore options for sports goggles if you have an athlete.

Try contact lenses. Contacts are convenient and comfortable, and aren’t as easily lost at school as glasses! They also offer advantages for very active kids.

Your child should be mature enough to care for them, which also means tolerating eye drops and practicing good hygiene. (It’s a good idea to keep a pair of glasses on hand for when they don’t feel like wearing contacts).

Ask us about specialty contacts. If your child is mature enough to handle contact lenses, there may be some specialty options that can help flatten the cornea. Wearing these contacts through the night can help slow the progression of myopia and enable your child to see clearly during the day without corrective wear.

There’s no shortage of new theories on how our screen usage may be changing us, including the way we socialize, think, and even see. It’s important to find a balance, both for ourselves and for our children, between online and offline activities.

It’s also a good idea to have your child’s eyes regularly assessed by an optometrist. We can address any issues early to prevent further deterioration of their vision, and make personalized recommendations.

Find out how we can help you and your entire family see more clearly, with excellent and professional service at Lethbridge Vision Care. (And once you’ve booked your consultation, consider taking a break from your screen!)

April 28, 2023
Are screens causing your dry eyes?

You’ve likely had this experience: you finish work after a long day, feeling good that your projects are (sort of) done, and you’re ready to call it quits. But when you finally look up from your computer, you notice your eyes are blurry, itchy, and DRY.

It’s a common experience if you work on a computer. Screens are hard on our eyes, and can leave them feeling strained after just a few hours. In fact, screen use is actually changing the structure of our eyes and affecting the glands that keep them moist.

A recent CBC article explains some of the common causes of dry eyes, including screen use. The immense amount of time that we now spend in front of screens, without the typical breaks and distractions that used to be a normal part of our day at work, is having an impact on how dry our eyes feel.

This phenomenon is so common that it has a name: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Symptoms of CVS include headaches, muscle aches, and of course, eye irritation and dryness. Thankfully, this syndrome has not been known to cause long term damage, but it can certainly impact your daily life.

While many of us experience mild dry eye symptoms from screen use, see an optometrist if your symptoms occur often or severely. You may have an underlying condition that requires treatment. It’s also possible to develop Meibomian Gland Dysfunction from a lack of blinking. A regular eye exam will ensure you receive proper care.

Why do screens make our eyes dry?

There are a couple of reasons why screens tend to make our eyes dry. Most of them have to do with the fact that screens provide a new and unique challenge to our eyes. There’s been a drastic increase in how much time we spend looking at a screen. In a few hundred years, our ancestors may evolve to be able to look at screens with ease (lucky them!) but for now, our eyes are still accommodating this new challenge.

Because of the size of screens, our eyes tend to be more strained when they are staring at a computer or phone. The combination of artificial light and small text forces our pupils to work extra hard. This strain can result in dry eyes and irritation.

We also blink less often when we’re looking at a screen. According to a 2018 study by BMJ Open Ophthalmology, people blink around 50% less often when using a computer! Instead of blinking 10-12 times a minute, you may only blink 5 times a minute when looking at a screen. Blinking helps with tear production and keeps our eyes moist and protected. When we don’t blink, our eyes aren’t properly moisturized and become dry as a result.

A common recommendation to reduce eye strain caused by screens is to take regular breaks from looking at them. This is sound advice, but the reality is that many of us have no choice but to look at screens for extended periods of time due to work.

How can you avoid dry eyes from screen use?

Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to help alleviate your dry eyes, even if you’re using screens for extended periods.

Keep screens at a reasonable distance away from your face. The closer your screen is to your eyes, the greater the strain. Many people hold their screen somewhere around 8-12 inches from their faces. Optometrists recommend stretching this space to about 22 inches. This can help to keep your eyes from becoming overwhelmed and encourage normal blink times to resume.
Make sure you blink. When you’re scanning a long document, editing a video, or doing endless data entry, force yourself to blink often. This helps to spread tears evenly over the surface of your eyes. Being aware of your blinking rate can help you remember to blink, and reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms.
Adjust your screen. Keep the brightness level in line with the rest of the room. You should also increase your font size and choose a font that’s comfortable to read to reduce the strain on your eyes. Lowering your screen or raising your chair can help to lower your eyelids, providing more protection to keep your eyes moist.
Use the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look up from your screen for 20 seconds, focussing on something that’s 20 feet away. This will allow your eyes to adjust, rest, and rehydrate.
Visit your optometrist. Over 300 million people globally suffer from dry eye disease. If your eyes regularly feel dry and uncomfortable, it’s important to find out what’s causing this condition. An optometrist will identify and treat any conditions that are contributing to your symptoms, and offer suggestions to help make working on a screen more comfortable.

Come visit us at Lethbridge Vision Care so we can help you manage your dry eye symptoms, no matter their cause. We’re experienced working with patients of all ages and have a full range of treatment options to alleviate your dry eyes. Don’t suffer with dry eyes! Options are available to protect your eye health and quality of life. Book your consultation today.

April 25, 2023
What to expect from your workplace eye exam

If you want to join a police force or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), enlist in the military, or work in another field that has specific vision requirements, you’ll need to have a professional eye exam conducted.

These exams may feel nerve-racking, especially if you wear glasses or have other vision concerns. Try not to stress. At Lethbridge Vision Care, we’re knowledgeable about the guidelines and requirements of these organizations, and can make your exam as comfortable as possible. Thankfully, modern tools and technologies also mean that people with vision problems are still able to join, so don’t delay in booking your exam.

What are these organizations looking for?

Police eye exams can vary by province, county, and city. Alberta police forces tend to agree on the vision standards required for future and existing members. Like most workplace eye exams, you will have an examination of both your uncorrected and corrected vision. In Alberta, the uncorrected vision standard is 20/40, and the corrected standard is 20/20.

The RCMP also tests both uncorrected and corrected vision. However, their requirements vary slightly from the Alberta police forces. The RCMP asks that uncorrected vision be 6/6 (20/20) in one eye and 6/9 (20/30) in the other. For uncorrected vision, the minimum requirement is 6/18 (20/60) in each eye OR 6/12 (20/40) in one eye and at least 6/30 (20/100) in the other eye.

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have slightly different vision eye exam requirements than the RCMP and most police agencies. The tests will also vary depending on what branch you are interested in. The Air Force, for example, has a slightly more in-depth test.

There are carefully outlined requirements for the CAF. They include different grades and notes that come into play when deciding visual acuity, and it can become fairly complicated. Don’t worry – your optometrist is knowledgeable about what’s required and can ensure that your workplace exam includes testing for all of the specific requirements.

Keep in mind these organizations aren’t just checking your near- and farsightedness. They want to know everything about eye function. This includes examining your peripheral vision, the development of eye diseases, and even your colour perception.

All of these tests have in common a thorough assessment of your overall eye health. Your optometrist will examine you to identify any existing eye diseases or conditions that could disrupt or damage your vision. This includes looking for things like glaucoma, amblyopia, and cataracts, to name a few.

If your optometrist does identify any concerns, they’ll be able to suggest a course of action, and may even be able to provide you with treatment options so that you’re not prohibited from following your chosen career path.

What if you’ve had corrective vision surgery like LASIK?

If you’ve had vision correction surgery, you’ll likely need to undergo more extensive testing. Depending on the surgery you’ve had, there may also be a waiting period before you’re able to have your eyes tested.

For example, the RCMP has clearly outlined wait times. LASIK requires a period of 30 days, PRK is 90 days, and implanted corrective lenses are anywhere from 6 months to a year. Be sure you check the wait requirements for your corrective vision surgery to know when you’re eligible for an exam.

What should you expect during a workplace eye exam?

Your optometrist will first conduct a basic visual examination to determine your near- and farsightedness. If you already wear glasses or contact lenses, you’re likely very familiar with this process.

You’ll also likely undergo testing for peripheral vision and colour perception. These tests are all relatively comfortable, but you can talk to your optometrist if you’re experiencing any distress.

During your field of vision test, your optometrist will ask you to look straight on, then produce a series of flashing lights. This tests for an impacted field of vision, which is identified if you aren’t able to register all of the flashing lights.

Colour vision is measured by your ability to tell the difference between colours. This is done using Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates, which are made of coloured dots arranged into the shape of a number, with another colour of dots forming the background. The colour combinations mean that the number pattern will become increasingly difficult to discern, testing the limits of your colour perception.

What happens if your test uncovers problems?

If you’re surprised or dismayed by the results of any of the testing, there are additional steps you can take. We may be able to work with you to improve your eye function, with strategies like changing your prescription or treating eye diseases.

In some cases, organizations including the military will facilitate additional testing, or even suggest roles where your vision may be less critical.

Don’t stress about your workplace eye exam! Often, vision and eye health will be sufficient to meet the standards of the police forces, RCMP, and military. If you do have vision problems, you may be able to work with your optometrist to resolve these issues. Innovations in optometry have brought about a number of improvements in available treatment options.

If you live in Alberta, find out how Lethbridge Vision Care can provide you with a comprehensive workplace eye exam. We’re experienced in conducting exams for local police forces, the RCMP, and the CAF, as well as for other professions. Book now and get your career started!

April 25, 2023