Blog | Cowichan Eyecare

Image of a field with a blurry grey area in the middle showing example of macular degeneration vision loss.

Eye Disease • August 13, 2024

Can Macular Degeneration Be Prevented?

Macular degeneration is a common eye disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, significantly impacting their quality of life. The disease primarily affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula, which is responsible for sharp, central vision. While there is currently…

Optometrist administering prescription eye drops to a female patient.

Eye Health • July 4, 2024

Can an Optometrist Prescribe Medication in BC?

When most people think of optometrists, they usually picture eye exams and prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. But there's so much more they can do. In BC, many optometrists have the ability to prescribe medication for a variety of eye-related issues. This means they can be your first line of defence against vision problems,…

Eye Exam • June 11, 2024

When Should Your Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

Vision care is a crucial aspect of overall health, especially in the early years of development. It’s during these formative years that children learn and explore the world around them, relying heavily on their vision. Among the milestones parents look forward to, a baby's first eye exam may not be at the top of the…

young woman smiling and holding contact on right pointer finger.

Dry Eye • May 8, 2024

Are Daily or Monthly Contacts Better for Dry Eyes?

Choosing the right type of contact lenses is crucial for maintaining eye health and comfort, especially for individuals with dry eyes. The debate between daily and monthly contacts for those who have dry eye syndrome is ongoing. If you deal with dry eyes, then generally daily contact lenses are the preferred option. Changing your contact…

An older adult man getting examined for glaucoma.

Eye Health • March 8, 2024

Is Glaucoma Hereditary?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can lead to irreversible blindness. Its early stages can be largely symptomless—a key reason glaucoma is so dangerous—which underscores the importance of identifying potential risk factors, including the genetic component. Glaucoma can be hereditary, so if the condition runs in your family, you should take extra care…

Young women undergoing eye exam at eye doctors clinic while wearing mask

Eye Exam • February 21, 2024

What is Included in an Eye Exam?

You’re likely familiar with eye exams in general, but your last visit to your eye doctor might have been a few years ago. Regular eye exams are vital for your eye health, but what happens during your appointment? Your optometrist has several diagnostic tests to help identify any potential issues. Continue reading to learn more…

A woman sitting at a table in front of a laptop, holding her glasses in her right hand while pressing her left hand to her forehead as if in pain.

Dry Eye • January 16, 2024

Can Dry Eyes Cause Blurry Vision?

Dry eyes and blurry vision are 2 common eye problems that can significantly impact your daily life. However, these issues may actually be one and the same! Along with stinging and irritation, dry eyes can cause blurry vision, making it difficult to see details. If you’re unsure what’s behind the sudden blurriness, your optometrist can…

Close-up of a man undergoing a slit-lamp exam.

Eye Exam • November 9, 2023

How Is Cornea Thickness Measured?

Our vision is one of our most important senses. It helps us take in, interact with, and appreciate our world. Regular eye exams help monitor your eye health and detect vision problems early, as many don't present with symptoms. The cornea (the eye's clear outer dome) helps focus light and keep your vision clear. Measuring…

A senior woman smiling and looking into a piece of optometry equipment as his optometrist performs an eye exam.

Eye Health • October 4, 2023

Is Macular Degeneration the Same as Glaucoma?

When we discuss eyesight, it's vital to understand that as we age, the risk of developing eye-related conditions increases, emphasizing the importance of early detection and care with regular eye exams. Two of the most common eye diseases are macular degeneration and glaucoma. While both eye diseases can impact your vision, they have distinct causes,…

View from behind a senior patient's head as they face a snellen chart on the wall and their optometrist points to a letter.

Eye Exam, Eye Health • September 5, 2023

What Is a Low Vision Exam?

Low vision exams or assessments are essential services that provide practical solutions to people with impaired vision through an in-depth look at how vision impairment affects your life. Because glasses, contact lenses, or surgery cannot treat low vision, everyday tasks and activities can be difficult. When you visit your eye doctor for a low vision…