When your optometrist dilates your eyes in an eye exam, they widen the pupil so they can better examine the ocular structures deep in the eye. Using eye dilation drops during an eye exam can help your optometrist diagnose eye conditions. Eye dilation drops work slowly, and the effects can last hours longer. Driving isn’t […]
Can Laser Eye Surgery Help Macular Degeneration?
When you have a refractive error, laser eye surgery can help improve your vision. Laser eye surgery can help address several eye conditions, but is macular degeneration one of them? While laser eye surgery can help with age-related macular degeneration, it can’t cure this condition, and not every surgery is beneficial. Only certain surgeries can […]
Can You Get Put to Sleep for Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery benefits many people, helping them lower their reliance on glasses and contacts. While this surgery is safe, and millions receive it each year, it’s common to be worried and nervous. You may even wonder if your doctor can anesthetize (put you to sleep) during the procedure. It can seem helpful, but anesthesia […]
Are Visine Eye Drops Bad for Your Eyes?
Prescription vs. OTC Eye Drops Eye drops can be a convenient treatment tool for various eye problems, from dry eye to myopia control. Patients can also try many over-the-counter options to relieve allergies or eye irritation symptoms temporarily. But are over-the-counter eye drops safe? Are prescription eye drops more effective than common brands like Visine? […]
Is Lazy Eye the Same as Strabismus?
Vision issues can be more common than you think at all ages. The good news is that your optometrist is in your corner to help preserve your visual health through regular eye exams. Lazy eye and strabismus are examples of visual issues that need to be addressed early. Let’s look at lazy eye and if […]
How Long is an Eye Exam Prescription Valid?
Are Your Glasses Expired? Eye exams are essential for protecting your vision. While regularly visiting your eye doctor allows them to evaluate eye health, it also allows patients to keep their prescription updated. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists (AOA), eye exams are generally recommended every 2 years for adults, annually for school-age children, […]
Does Laser Eye Surgery Cause Dry Eyes?
Laser eye surgery is an excellent option for individuals looking to reduce their reliance on contact lenses and glasses. The first step is finding out if you are compatible with laser eye surgery which involves visiting your optometrist for a comprehensive laser eye surgery consultation. While laser eye surgery is a proven and exciting option […]
What Is IPL Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome?
What Is IPL Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome? If you are dealing with dry eye syndrome, your eyes may be irritated and itchy, or you may have a gritty feeling in your eyes. Professional methods, apart from at-home treatments, such as IPL (intense pulsed light), can provide relief from dry eye syndrome. More than 6 […]
When Should a Child Have Their First Eye Exam?
When Should Children Have Their First Eye Exam? Children learn by seeing what’s around them. The world can seem scary and confusing if they can’t see clearly and do not even realize they have visual issues. The Canadian Association of Optometrists states that 25% of school-aged children have vision problems. For those reasons, it’s crucial […]
Can People With Dry Eyes Wear Contacts?
If you have dry eye disease, you’re well aware of the irritating symptoms that can come with it. If you wear contact lenses, these symptoms can be even worse. If you have dry eye disease, it doesn’t mean you can’t wear contacts! At Cowichan Eyecare we’re here to help you find the right contacts so […]