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Many scientific studies have confirmed that exposure to various things in the environment can negatively affect our eye health and vision. Read on to learn more.

It's Contact Lens Safety Month, which makes it the perfect time to brush up on ways to keep your eyes and vision healthy when wearing contact lenses. Here are our top contact lens safety tips to keep your peepers happy.

Seeing floaters is common and usually nothing to worry about. Yet there are times when floaters are a sign of a serious eye condition. Here’s what you need to know about eye floaters, and how Lake Country Optometry can help!

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common eye conditions in the world, yet many people put up with the discomfort, even though it's very treatable. Here are tips to help you deal with your dry eye symptoms, along with treatment from your eye doctor.

Here are 5 eye symptoms that you should never ignore. Call Lake Country Optometry without delay if you or a loved one experiences any of these eye or vision problems.

Every child should have a comprehensive eye exam before the start of the new school year. Just as you wouldn’t consider sending them to school without a backpack or a lunch box, make sure their eyes and vision are ready for the challenges ahead.

Did you know that Nerf® guns, a supposedly safe children’s toy, have been shown to cause eye injury in certain cases? What makes them so dangerous?

Hyperopia affects near vision in children and young adults. Want to know more about hyperopia? Here we explain ways to recognize the condition and help your child if they have it.

Walk Away from Cigarettes: How Smoking Impacts Vision Most of us are aware that smoking can negatively impact many aspects of our health, but did you know that smoking can play a role in blindness as well? 1) Dry Eye: The smoke produced by cigarettes will dry the eyes and...

Cataract surgery not only improves vision. Research suggests that cataract surgery may also prevent cognitive decline.

Here’s how you can celebrate National Sunglasses Day on June 27.

Working at home has many benefits, but it can also trigger computer-related eye strain. Here are some proven ways to reduce digital eye strain, whether at home or in the office.

At some point in our lives, we've all had our eyes examined using an eye chart – whether during a school screening or at the optometrist's office. But what exactly is the chart and what does it measure? Read on to find out!

Bloodshot eyes can be harmless, but may also be a sign of an underlying eye condition.

What is age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? Macular degeneration is an eye disease that affects a person's central and colour vision. It is a deterioration of the part of the eye called the macula. The macula is a small part of the retina, which is the light-sensing tissue at the back...

If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, your optometrist will monitor its progression and manage your symptoms. Once you need surgery, your optometrist can direct you to an eye surgeon.

This March, in honor of National Save Your Vision Month, we’ve compiled a list of 5 essential ways to help you keep your eyes healthy and strong.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to give your eyes some love. Here are 10 ways you can give your eyes the attention they deserve, to protect them both now and in the future.

Did you know that pregnancy hormones can affect your vision? Read on to learn about the possible visual changes that some women may experience while expecting, and what warning signs to look out for.

She was right, but carrots are not the only food that can help improve your vision and give you healthy eyes. One of the most basic components of good health is diet. It is the high carotenoid content of carrots that makes them good for your eyes. All yellow and...

Frequntly Asked Questions with Dr. Reimer   Q: What are the risks to not wearing sunglasses? A: Here in the Okanagan many of us enjoy spending time outdoors year-round and engaging in activities such as biking, hiking and skiing. If you aren't currently in the habit of grabbing a pair...

For many children, learning via a digital device has become routine, and their eyes are paying the price. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize digital eye strain while your child is studying.

If you've noticed that your vision turns hazy after enjoying a meal, you may have an early stage of diabetes mellitus. Here's how your optometrist can help.

Just as it’s become second nature to wash our hands, it’s equally important to thoroughly clean our glasses. Ignoring this important task allows germs, including COVID-19, to accumulate on the lenses and frames. Here are a few easy steps you can take to properly disinfect your glasses.

How much do your genetics influence your eye health? Here we explore the link between family history and eye disease, and what you can do to help keep your eyes healthy despite your genetics.

Do your eyes become irritated and itchy when you wear contact lenses? Could be dry eye syndrome, allergies or the contact lenses themselves. Read on to find out what to do if you experience contact lens discomfort.

Halloween is a time to dress up and embrace a new look. One way to do this is with decorative contact lenses. However, if not fitted properly or obtained from an unreliable vendor, these lenses can damage your eyes and lead to vision loss. Find out what you can do to prevent such an occurrence

Do your eyes feel irritated when you wear eye makeup? Your eye makeup routine might not be dry-eye-friendly. Here we explain why certain eye makeup products can cause or exacerbate dry eye symptoms, and what you can do to accentuate your eyes without irritation.

While purchasing a new pair of glasses online may seem more convenient, there are many advantages to purchasing them from a local eye care store. Here are 3 reasons to get your glasses from your neighborhood optometrist.

Healthy eyes extend far beyond healthy vision. Read on to learn how vision problems can impact you, and how having your eyes checked regularly can lower your risks.

You can’t force kids to wear their glasses, but you can help make it easier. Here are our top 5 tips to help convince your child to wear their glasses.

Cataracts, which are a natural part of aging, cause your vision to become cloudy. Luckily, there are things you can do to try to delay the progression of cataracts. A good place to start is your diet. Find out which foods to avoid and which to add to your diet.

As we age our eyes start to change, but that doesn’t mean you have to struggle with declining vision. Find out what you can do to maintain eye health after the age of 50.

What we eat is not only important for your health but for your eyes as well. Our eyes need certain vitamins and nutrients to keep them healthy. Find out what food you should add or avoid to help delay the progression of your age-related macular degeneration.

Spending countless hours of our lives staring at screens comes at a price. It can cause headaches, eye strain and dry eye symptoms. What is blue light, and how can blue light glasses prevent or alleviate digital eye strain?

Here’s what we know about the benefits of blue-blocking glasses so far. Read on to find out whether blue light glasses could be right for you.

Although COVID is still present in our lives, we are slowly returning to a semi-normal life. With so many disruptions this past year, the one thing that should be consistent is your child's back-to-school eye evaluations.

I’m worried my daughter is spending too much time on her tablet – what is this doing to her? You are right to be concerned. Multiple studies correlate increased use of digital media by children with risks of obesity, poorer school performance, poorer sleep quality, as well as delays in...

Parents always want to protect their children from harm’s way. But sometimes they forget to protect their eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sunglasses are an easy way to shield your child’s eyes from the sun and thus prevent certain eye diseases.

An eye twitch can develop for a number of reasons and last from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the cause. Most eye twitches are mild and will go away on their own as soon as the underlying cause is resolved. Find out what may be causing your eye to twitch and what you can do to relieve it.

Myopia Control Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition that impacts billions of people world-wide. Thanks to increasing use of digital devices, that number is growing and is projected to impact almost half of the global population by 2050. One study recently showed that home confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic...

Child squinting, or holding objects unusually close or far away from his or her eyes? Children's eye exams in Lake Country, British Columbia.

Whether or not your child wears glasses, now is the time to have their eyes checked! Good vision is essential for learning and succeeding in school, so bring your child in for a comprehensive eye exam before the new school year begins.

Do blue light glasses really work? Read on to learn what science has to say about blue light and whether your child may benefit from a pair of blue light glasses.

People with astigmatism can wear contact lenses, but finding the best lenses for their eyes can be tricky. Learn about the types of lenses that provide clear and comfortable vision for those with astigmatism.

Since blue eyes contain very little melanin — a pigment that helps block out light, including the sun’s harmful UV rays and blue light — they often feel more sensitive to bright light. Find out more.

Eye Doctor In Lake Country Digital eye exams allow the optometrist to detect changes to your eyes faster and with greater accuracy. Eye conditions can now be detected earlier, resulting in improved treatment, thanks to new and improved digital equipment. What Is a Digital Eye Exam? You've probably already had...

Sunglasses are so much more than an accessory. They can lower your risk of developing dangerous eye diseases, and can keep you looking younger and seeing clearly, no matter how bright it is outside. Read on to discover the many benefits associated with wearing shades.

Katarina Markin – Lake Country Optometry Computer Vision Syndrome affects an estimated 65% of computer users. If you use multiple screens, you are even more likely to experience symptoms. Common symptoms of computer vision syndrome are: burning-watering headache or eye ache double vision blurry vision-light sensitivity If you get these...

There comes a time when you need to say goodbye to your old pair of glasses and replace it with a new one. Get a new pair of eyeglasses that incorporates the newest technology to significantly increase your clarity and comfort levels.

Dilated eye exams make it possible for eye doctors to better assess your eye health and are the only way to detect certain eye diseases.

Though swimming in contact lenses may be tempting, it can lead to infection and redness. Read on to discover how you can see clearly when swimming without compromising on eye health.

At Lake Country Optometry, our optometric team works with you to find the perfect frames and lenses to match your lifestyle.

Contact lenses can be a great choice for teens needing vision correction. If your teens have been asking you for contact lenses, you may want to read on to determine if they’re ready.

Do you play sports outdoors? Here are 5 compelling reasons to wear prescription sports sunglasses.

Visiting your eye doctor regularly is important for good eye health. But did you know it can also be good for your overall health? Find out what general health issues your eye doctor may uncover during a comprehensive eye exam.

As adults, we know to protect our eyes from the sun with sunglasses, yet many parents don’t realize that their baby’s eyes are especially prone to sun damage.

Eye exams & Optical Store in Lake Country, British Columbia. Answers to some of the most common eye care and vision questions.

Here are some basic tips to keep your glasses in optimal condition and increase their lifespan.

Knowing whether your baby’s vision is healthy can be difficult— but not impossible. Here are some telltale signs of vision problems in babies and toddlers.

If you’ve ever had watery, itchy, red eyes, you know what it’s like to have eye allergies. Learn more about eye allergies — what they are and how we can help you attain long-lasting relief.

Glaucoma is a primary cause of preventable vision loss and blindness among adults in North America. Early detection is crucial. Fortunately, your eye doctor can detect glaucoma, prevent or minimize vision loss, and help you make the most of your remaining vision.

Macular degeneration is a vision-threatening eye disease that many people experience as they age. It affects the macula — an area of the retina that is responsible for clear central vision. Learn more about macular degeneration and what symptoms to look out for.

Prescription sunglasses offer the right prescription for your eyes as well as sun protection. Here are 3 reasons why prescription sunglasses are a must for anyone who wears glasses or contact lenses.

Here we discuss the main causes of blindness, and explain what you can do to reduce your chances of severe vision loss.

If you’ve developed dry eye syndrome while wearing a face mask, you know just how uncomfortable the condition can be. Between now and your eye doctor appointment, there are a few things you can do to minimize your dry eye symptoms.

Sunglasses aren’t only an accessory. They’re a necessity. Looking good is all well and fun, but protecting your eyes should be your main priority. When buying sunglasses, combine fashion with practicality.

If you wear contact lenses, here are our top “do’s and don’ts” of wearing and caring for your lenses.

We spend countless hours of our lives staring at screens. But all this screen time comes at a price, commonly causing headaches, eye strain, insomnia and, according to some studies, damage to the retina. What are blue light glasses and can they prevent or alleviate these problems? Read on to find out!

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and you still don’t have a gift? Consider getting them a pair of designer sunglasses they'll love!

Do your eyes burn or feel gritty? You may have dry eye syndrome. While home remedies can help relieve your dry eye symptoms, it’s important to have your eye doctor diagnose and treat the condition. Here are 5 home remedies to help make your eyes feel more comfortable until you can visit your eye doctor.

Harsh winter weather can irritate your eyes — especially if you wear contacts. Here are some tips to make contact lens wearing hassle-free this winter.

There are many benefits to buying blue light glasses. The lenses keep you from experiencing eye strain, headaches and other side effects of blue light exposure. However, there's a lot of guesswork and uncertain outcomes when buying them online.

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month! Here’s what you ought to know about glaucoma and discover how an eye exam could help save your vision.

New Year, New Benefits! Flexible Spending Accounts & Vision Benefits. Start the new year by learning how to use your FSA and HSA benefits for your next eye exam.

Contact lenses that don’t fit properly can cause discomfort and even eye damage. During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor will perform various tests to ensure you get the right prescription and the proper fit.

Every year people make New Year’s resolutions that involve a positive change in their lives. One of your resolutions should include maintaining healthy eyes.

If you or your child is new to wearing contact lenses, read our Top 5 Tips to make the adjustment easier.

Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Why not, you ask? Read on to find out why sunglasses are just as much “fall wear” as jackets are.

Myopia or nearsightedness is most commonly corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. As children grow, their prescription often gets stronger, what we call “progressive myopia”. Our eye doctors can help.

The massive quantity of smoke wildfires spew into the air can cause eye irritation and inflammation. Be aware of the symptoms, learn how to protect yourself, and alert us to continued symptoms or discomfort.

Driving long distances, prolonged screen time and even reading can cause eye strain symptoms like headaches and blurry vision. Here are some eye exercises that can help you relax your eyes and find relief.

  If you wear glasses and a face mask, you’ve probably struggled with “mask fog.” Your lenses get all misty, requiring you to wipe your eyewear throughout the day. Below are a few strategies to help you prevent your eyeglasses from fogging up when wearing a mask. But First, Why...

Countless people around the world wear daily disposable contact lenses or dailies. These popular single-use lenses are removed and discarded at the end of each day, and a new, fresh pair is inserted the next morning. Used properly, dailies promote eye health, and they’re comfortable and convenient. Despite the many...

The Changing Face of Eye Care COVID-19’s rapid sweep across the country has forced optical practices to make rapid clinical management decisions. Some optometrists temporarily shuttered their businesses due to the pandemic, while others began to offer emergency appointment services and telehealth. As mandatory restrictions begin to lift in many...

Coronavirus and Your Eyeglasses Did you know that our glasses (this includes the lenses and the frame) can potentially transfer viruses, such as COVID-19, to our eyes, nose, and mouth? This is because viruses — as well as bacteria — are easily transferred from our surroundings to our hands and...

Nation-wide awareness about the vast dangers of obesity is at an all-time high, with TV shows like “The Biggest Loser” and health initiatives such as Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign shining a spotlight on the importance of fitness and good nutrition. However, despite the public’s knowledge of obesity’s effects on...

Everyone seems to be staring at a screen these days, whether their computer, their smartphone or another digital device. The stress it puts on your eyes can cause a condition called "digital eye strain" (DES) or "computer vision syndrome" (CVS). Symptoms include eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck...

Did you know that people with diabetes are 20 times more likely to get eye diseases than those without it? There are three major eye conditions that diabetics are at risk for developing: cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. To prevent these sight-threatening diseases, it's important to control your blood sugar...

Playing outside in a snowy winter wonderland can be magical. Under clear skies in the sunshine, the soft white landscape becomes just about irresistible, whether at home or travelling on a winter-weather get-away. Before you let your children run outside to build the most adorable snowman or fling themselves onto...

Smoking harms nearly every system in your body — including your eyes. Though we are all aware of the health effects associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and bad teeth, few know about the negative impact it can have on our vision. Smoking and Eye Disease Smoking,...

Your eyes aren't just the windows to your soul — they can also reveal valuable information about your general health beyond whether you need glasses, including: diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. It is not unusual for people to come in for an eye exam just to check their eyesight...

Swimming in a pool with your contacts on or topping off your solution may seem harmless, but they could compromise your contact lenses and your vision. Below are daily habits to adopt for optimal contact lens care: Wash Your Hands Regularly Whether you use daily or monthly contact lenses, make...

Once you and your doctor have decided on the type of contact lenses you'll need, it's time to choose the most suitable contact lens solution for your eyes and contacts. There exist 2 different types of solution for contact lenses: Multipurpose and Hydrogen Peroxide-based. While both remove debris and build-up,...

Whether you live in a cold climate or have visited one in the winter, you have probably seen someone who just walked in from the cold outdoors sporting glasses that are no longer transparent, or perhaps you’ve experienced it yourself. Why Do Glasses Fog Up? There are several factors that...

Before you respond that you don’t need an eye exam because your eyes and vision are good, read on! Many common age-related eye diseases can have absolutely no symptoms during the early stages, including macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. That means you can walk around for a...

Lake Country Optometry Eye Clinic in Lake Country, British Columbia LASIK may fulfill your dream of seeing clearly without glasses or contacts! Many people are good candidates for this vision correction surgery. Stop dreaming and look into your eligibility for LASIK. Consult with our eye doctor for more information Many...

Lake Country Optometry Eye Clinic in Lake Country, British Columbia Do contacts make your vision worse? You have just visited our eye care clinic for an eye exam in Lake Country, British Columbia and you received a new vision prescription. Now it is time to purchase new eyewear – should...

See the Benefits of Our Eye Exam in Lake Country, British Columbia No matter how you look at it, eye care is an expense. Yet that doesn’t mean it’s always worthwhile to chase after the lowest price for your eye exam! When it comes to the health of your eyesight,...

Your eyes are extremely sensitive – the smallest particle of sand or thinnest eyelash stuck in your eye can lead to intense pain. With this in mind, you may be wondering how do people tolerate LASIK eye surgery? The concept of a laser eye specialist cutting your corneal tissue sounds...

Know the symptoms of seasonal eye allergies and how to get rid of this pesky problem As the weather warms, flower buds are opening, and your neighbors are dragging their lawnmowers out for an annual spring tune-up. And suddenly you find a need to rub your itchy, red, and sore...

Many eye diseases are associated with aging, and even before you notice any problems, it is common for one of these conditions to be detected during a comprehensive eye exam. If you were diagnosed with an eye disease, such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or dry eye, you...

All About Management & Treatment for Eye Disease Many eye diseases are associated with aging, and even before you notice any problems, it is common for one of these conditions to be detected during a comprehensive eye exam. If you were diagnosed with an eye disease, such as Cataracts, Glaucoma,...

What can I do about Dry Eyes in Winter ? Dry eyes is one of the most common complaints eye doctors get from patients during the winter season, especially in the cooler climates. That’s why we’d like to share some tips on how to relieve dry eye discomfort, and how...

At Lake Country Optometry, we excel in providing a complete range of professional Eye Care Services! From fitting you with a new pair of designer eyeglasses to managing eye disease, you’ll benefit from top-of-the-line treatment in our office. Our experienced and knowledgeable eye doctors, Dr. Reimer & Dr. Friessen, are...

Diabetes is becoming much more prevalent around the globe. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 425 million adults were living with diabetes in the year 2017 and 352 million more people were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By 2045 the number of people diagnosed is expected to...

Regular exercise is an essential component of overall health and wellness. It is proven that exercise reduces sickness and disease; it increases strength, immunity, and mental health; and it also helps regulate bodily functions and maintain a healthy weight. Research shows that exercise can lower our risk of chronic conditions...

How can I keep my Eyes healthy as I get old Getting old doesn’t have to be synonymous with vision loss. There is a lot you can do to keep your eyes and vision healthy and prevent age related eye disease and vision loss, especially if you start early. Keeping...

You Don’t Have to Live With Dry Eyes Have you noticed that your eyes feel chronically dry, itchy, scratchy or even sometimes watery? Many people that have these symptoms just go on with their lives until the symptoms become unbearable. What they don’t realize is that these are signs that...

Eye Doctors Weigh In: How Smoking Can Harm Your Vision & Eye Health We all know that smoking is bad for you, especially the risks that it poses to your heart and lungs. What many people do not know is that cigarette smoke negatively affects your eyes and vision too. Smoking...

In an effort to spread the word to increase awareness about Sjogren’s Disease, eye care providers are speaking out about this hard-to-diagnose condition. Sjogren’s is a systemic autoimmune disorder that can affect the whole body. One of the primary symptoms is excessive dryness particularly in the eyes and mouth. Other...

Hey women! Did you know that women are more likely to suffer from vision problems and are at higher risk of permanent vision loss than men? Well 91% of the women surveyed recently didn’t know that, which means that many of them aren’t taking the necessary precautions to prevent eye...

There is nothing worse than a dirty spot on your glasses - well except perhaps many dirty spots or smudges. When that happens, most of us are tempted to grab the corner of our shirt and wipe it off, but resist the temptation - this is actually not a good...

Eye colour is a hereditary trait that depends on the genes of both parents, as well as a little bit of mystery. The colour of the eye is based on the pigments in the iris, which is a coloured ring of muscle located at the center of the eye (around...

Age-related macular degeneration is a serious condition that can threaten your vision and general well-being. Characterized by the deterioration of the central area of the retina called the macula which is responsible for focused vision, the disease gradually reduces your central vision. This affects the ability to see fine details,...

Despite the fact that it is one of the most common eye problems, a surprisingly large percentage of patients are not aware of it.

Chances are it affects you or someone you know. November has been dedicated as a time to spread awareness about the disease, its risk factors and the effects it has on your body, your daily life and the lives of your loved ones.

Red, itchy, watery eyes and swollen eyelids (along with sneezing, congestion or a runny nose)...

Newsletter November 2016 At our office, we care about protecting our patients’ vision. As optometrists, we also care about people around the world who lack access to quality vision care.  Because of this, Lake Country Optometry participated in the World Sight Day Challenge on Wednesday October 12. Now in its...

As Halloween approaches and the sun sets earlier, we invite parents to pick up free “Be Seen. Be Safe.” reflective stickers for their children’s Halloween costumes. “We want to help keep kids safe this Halloween, and that includes being visible to motorists,” says Dr. Karla Reimer. About 10 per cent of all pedestrian...

Since studies show that learning is 80% visual, children with untreated vision problems can really suffer when it comes to school. Most people think that good “vision” means 20/20 acuity but in reality, vision is much more complex.  Your brain is actually what completes the processing of the visual world...

Whether it is the sea, the sand, the sun or the softball field, summer brings people outside and this creates exposure to a multitude of potential dangers to the eyes. One risk that is possibly the least obvious is the swimming pool. Swimming pools are the culprit for multitudes of...

Refractive errors including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.

‘Tis the season for giving, and parents, grandparents, family and friends need to know how to choose toys and games that protect children’s health and eyesight.

Skiing Eyewear   Proper eyewear is an absolute essential when equipping yourself for a fun and safe time on the ski slopes. A number of design and lens options exist in ski eyewear today. Below, the key aspects of ski eyewear design and function are discussed to help you understand...

The hormonal fluctuations experienced during pregnancy can cause many unexpected changes in your body, including your eyes and vision. Most of these changes are temporary and will return to normal once you give birth.  It’s important to know which vision changes are normal for an expecting mother and which could...

A baby’s visual system develops gradually over the first few months of life. They have to learn to focus and move their eyes, and use them together as a team.  The brain also needs to learn how to process the visual information from the eyes to understand and interact with...

There is a lot more that goes into finding the right pair of sunglasses than just fit and fashion.  While it’s important to look and feel great in your shades, sunglasses also have the very important job of properly protecting your eyes from the sun.  Here are a few facts...

Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in the United States and Canada. Here are 6 things you need to know. 1. Chances are you will develop a cataract!  Cataracts are considered part of the natural aging process so if you live long enough, you will likely eventually develop...

Last week, people in South America, Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia and the Middle East saw a solar eclipse. As you may have heard, looking directly at a solar eclipse is very dangerous for your eyes and vision. Nevertheless, this rare event is something that many people want...

March is Save Your Vision Month, a time to raise public awareness about how to protect your eyes and your vision. Most people aren’t aware that 75% of potential vision loss can be prevented or treated. This largely depends on patients being proactive and educated about their eye health. Here...

Glaucoma is a serious, vision threatening disease. You can save your eyesight, by knowing the facts. Are you at risk of developing glaucoma? The short answer is yes. Anyone can get glaucoma and because of this it is important for every person, young and old to have a regular eye...

It’s that time of year again…coughs, sneezing, running noses and itchy, red eyes.  How do you know when an eye irritation is something that needs medical attention? First of all, any time an eye infection is accompanied by fever, excessive discharge or pain, you should see your eye doctor immediately....

One of the most common patient complaints during the winter months is dry eyes. In the cooler climates, cold winds and dry air, coupled with dry indoor heating can be a recipe for eye discomfort.  Dryness and irritation can be particularly debilitating for those who wear contact lenses or suffer...

Winter break is in a few weeks and, with college students finding their way home for the holidays, it is a good time for parents to check in and make sure their independent kids are taking care of themselves properly.Vision plays a key role in learning as well as extra-curricular activities...

You may have experienced this before. Out of nowhere, your eyelid starts twitching uncontrollably. While this can be a cause of aggravation, eyelid twitches, spasms or tics are actually quite common. Here are 7 things you should know about this eye condition: Eye twitches are generally caused by a repetitive,...

October is 'Eye Injury Prevention Month' in the USA and 'Eye Health Month' in Canada. There are about 285 million people living with blindness and low vision all around the world. Children account for some 19 million of them. The vast majority of visual impairment is readily treatable and/or preventable....

The World Sight Day Challenge, slated to take place on October 9, 2014 is an annual awareness day that aims to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment worldwide. The day aims to create awareness that blindness can be avoided if there is universal access to quality vision and...

The new school year has kicked off and you can tick off purchasing all that back to school equipment. Now, it's time to think about what your child will need for after school sports and hobby activities. Making sure they have the right protective eyewear for their sporting or athletic...

A futuristic, yet simplistic, eye implant paired with a smartphone app may change the way eye doctors treat glaucoma.

School is starting: Do you know how to set up your child’s homework and reading spot? Reading and writing are some of the most fundamental skills that your child to facilitate learning in school, so it is important to make sure that your child's eyes are comfortable when they are...

Summer vacation is well under way, but did you know that even when your child is out of the classroom, vision problems can have an impact on his/her daily activities? Look out for these 4 warning signs during the summer months – they could be a sign of vision difficulties...

Eye floaters are actually more common that you may think. Many people notice specks or cobweb-like images moving around in their line of vision, at some point. Some even report experiencing a "snow globe effect" as if they are swatting at many imaginary bugs. Floaters may be an annoyance, but...

Cataracts affect millions of people nationwide and as the population continues to age, the numbers keep increasing. The good news is, cataracts are often manageable and treatable. Here are some facts you should know to help you recognize cataracts and prevent permanent vision loss. A cataract is a clouding of...

Have you ever wondered what your eyes do when you finally close them after a long day of visual processing and stimulation? Let's take a closer look at what happens behind your closed lids when your head hits the pillow. Firstly, once your eyes are closed, they do continue to...

The heat of long summer days is nearly upon us. As the sun's rays intensify and people spend more time outdoors in the sunshine it is very important to be aware of the potential damage exposure to the sun can have on your eyes. May is UV Awareness month. Here...

Your eyes communicate much more than you may realize, in fact they play a huge role in your non-verbal communication. Consciously or not, the way you move your eyes, look at someone, blink or make eye contact can say a lot about what you are thinking and feeling. Here's a...

There are so many people who spend hours a day, if not most of the day working on a computer or mobile device. They usually do so without taking notice of the effect this has on their bodies. Using a computer or handheld device for extended amounts of time can...

It's been said that your eyes are the window to your soul. Well, research is showing that your eyes are a window to a lot more than your thoughts and emotions; it can be an indicator of your overall health.  A study by UnitedHealthcare entitled, “Impact of Eye Exams in...

Low vision is a condition in which an individual suffers significant vision loss that can't be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. Low vision can affect both children and adults, but is more common in the elderly, and requires significant adjustments to daily life. Here are some...

Your child's first pair of glasses will make an important difference in his or her ability to see and interact with the surrounding world. However, a new pair of glasses can also present a big adjustment for both parents and kids as you get used to a new look and...

The New Year is a time to start fresh and renew our commitment to health, happiness and success. It’s important to include eye and vision health and safety in these resolutions. Here are the top six ways you can make your eyes and vision a priority this year. Schedule a...

The holiday season is on our doorstep. With technology so much a part of our lives, the easy go-to gifts for kids often include an enormous array of hand-held video devices and home gaming systems. Did you know that after extensive use these games can be harmful to children’s eyes...

  Diabetes affects people of all ages, races and genders.  An estimated 9 million Canadians suffer from diabetes according to the Canadian Diabetes Association. In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults in the North America. If you or someone you care...

If you wear contact lenses, you probably know the hygiene routine you should follow when removing your lenses: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them on a clean, lint free cloth. Remove the lens from your eye and clean the lens immediately (if you wear multi-use...

Did you forget to put on your sunglasses today? Are you constantly sitting in front of a computer screen without taking breaks to look away? Maybe you also skipped your yearly eye exam, again. These are just some of the things we tend to overlook when it comes to our...

As Halloween approaches and costume planning gets more serious, many consider the use of novelty or costume contact lenses as a way to add that extra flair. Whether you are dressing up as a cat, a vampire, or looking for something fun that glows in the dark, dressing up your...

Many travelers experience dry eyes after extended travel by air. The dry environment of a temperature- and pressure-controlled air plane cabin can take its toll on your eyes. The good news is there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associated with travelers’ dry...

Just because the summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean that we have to say goodbye to the swimming pool. Whether it means a nice refreshing dip on a warm fall afternoon or a winter swim in an indoor pool, swimming is a great activity for both fun and...

The use of technology has become commonplace in the classroom. So much so that today’s generation of students, from kindergarten to university, navigates computers, smartphones and tablets all the time.  Many schools have even implemented the use of smart boards and bring your own device (BOYD) programs. However, as amazing...

For adults over the age of 65, the right pair of vision correcting glasses can literally be a life saver. Seniors aged 65 and up are at increased risk of falling, which is the leading cause of injury, injury-related death, and hospitalization for this age group. According to the Centers...

To ensure that your eyes remain healthy, it is essential to protect them from injury and to take proper care measures if an injury has occurred. Here are a number of practical first aid tips to remember if you or anyone you know suffers an eye injury. The very first...

Eye charts of different variations have become a standard in vision screenings and eye exams. One of the most familiar charts associated with vision is the Snellen eye chart, designed by Dutch ophthalmologist Hermann Snellen in 1862 to measure visual acuity- how well you can see at various distances. Although...

Cataracts, one of the most common causes of blindness, develop when the lens of the eye, located behind the iris and pupil, becomes opaque or cloudy. A cataract can result in loss of vision as it prevents light from passing into your eye and focusing on the retina. While cataracts...

Did you know that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness among adults aged 50 and above? AMD occurs when the part of the retina responsible for your sharp central vision, the macula, begins to deteriorate. Central vision is the visual field...

Do your sunglasses have what it takes to protect your eyes? As the summer heats up and people spend more time outdoors, it is very important to wear UV blocking eyewear to protect against exposure to ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to your eyes. Damage caused by UV from...

Women's eyes are regularly exposed to potential irritants through the use of cosmetics. As eye shadow, mascara and eye liner can breed unseen dirt and bacteria, it is vital to ensure that the products you use to apply and remove your makeup are hygienic to prevent irritation that can cause...

Did you know that your dietary choices have an impact on your eye health and vision? Opting for appetizing food that at the same time provides you with all the nutrients that are essential for preserving your vision, is taking a major step towards minimizing the risk of eye disease...

Spring is right around the corner, as the winter begins to wind down and the fresh, warmer air begins to rear its head. Unfortunately for many, it's often hard to enjoy nature's blooming beauty as the warmer weather also brings about the onset of itchy, watery eyes that come with...

Dry eyes are a common problem for many individuals particularly during the winter months when exposure to dry air and whipping wind is increased. However, if you are suffering from dry eyes that just won't go away, you may have what is known as Dry Eye Syndrome - a condition...

Sunglasses are an essential part of your wardrobe, even in the winter. While many people associate the need for 100% UV protective sunglasses with warm weather and glaring sun like you find on the beach, harmful UV radiation is present even on a gloomy, cloudy day. No matter where you...

Far too many people are unaware of the fact that diabetes increases the chances of vision loss. In reality, diabetes is the leading cause of loss of sight in adults under 75 years old. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is when the retina is damaged by increased...

Have you considered contact lenses as a way to correct astigmatism? The cornea of a normally sighted person is spherical, but when you have astigmatism, it's more elliptical. This seemingly minor detail actually changes the way light hits the retina, and results in blurred vision. Toric contact lenses are used...

During an eye examination, you may have had a doctor instruct you to peer straight in front of you while directing a light into your eye. So what does this do? This test is a retinoscopy examination, and if you struggle with accurate vision, this is one way the eye...

Technologically, we've really progressed in the past few years and now, it would be challenging to find someone not on some sort of smartphone. Tablets and smartphones are extremely convenient when we're on the go. Nevertheless as these devices have little screens, many people tend to hold their smartphones a...

Did you know that a pair of prescription glasses that are fitted specifically for you can help with computer related eye strain? Even if you don’t experience other vision problems wearing a specifically made pair of glasses while working on the computer can significantly change how you work. If you...

Are you having trouble reading small print? If you're close to middle-age, you might have presbyopia. If you already wear glasses for distance vision, and are later on diagnosed with presbyopia, you don't have to start carrying and switching between two pairs of glasses. Multifocal lenses help you see clearly...

How can you make your next eye exam even more productive? In order for us to guarantee that your exam is effective and worthwhile, there are a few facts we'll need to know. Because your eyes can be affected by seemingly unrelated health conditions, you'll need to let us know...

Are you concerned that your son or daughter has a lazy eye? It forms when vision is suppressed, but only in one eye. This may happen if someone can't see properly through one eye because of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, or something that could be limiting clear sight in that...

You're settled down for bed, so you turn out the lights, but you can't fall asleep. You open your eyes and it's all dark. You notice that it's difficult to see for a few moments before your eyes adjust. This process, "dark adaptation," allows our eyes to adjust to the...

Alas, experiencing trouble with reading is a common occurrence in middle aged people. Seeing clearly things that are up close is an age related function of your vision which gets weaker as you become older. This is why: As time passes, your eye's lens becomes increasingly inflexible, decreasing your ability...

It's important for parents to know how to choose toys that are the safest and the most beneficial for kids. Children are born with an immature visual system which, through stimulation, becomes more refined throughout their growing years. There aren't many things that help a child's visual development better than...

  A huge percentage of school-based learning is achieved with children's eyes. Yet interestingly, in spite of this obvious connection between sight and learning, a lot of parents don't seem to be aware of just how common vision problems are, and as a result, don't get their child's eyes checked...

Too often, kids are incorrectly diagnosed with all kinds of behavioral problems, when the problem is something else completely. You may be relieved to know that he or she may have a hidden condition, which hinders learning at school, called Convergence Insufficiency (CI). CI is a near vision problem that...

It's safe to assume that you've come across the terms 20/20 vision and visual acuity. As frequently used as these terms may be, do you actually know what they mean? When you understand what they imply, you will get why your optometrist needs you to do more than simply read...

Have you thought about trying coloured contacts? Well, there are plenty of colour contact lenses available to subtly boost or distinctly transform your natural eye colour. There is a whole spectrum of colour contact lenses available these days, guaranteeing that you'll be sure to find just what you want. Regardless...

Are you suffering from inflamed eyelids, also known as blepharitis? Blepharitis is a commonly occurring eyelid inflammation, sometimes linked to a bacterial eye infection, some sorts of skin conditions, such as acne, or dry eyes. Often, symptoms include redness, itching, burning, the feeling of a gritty or foreign body in...

Do you ever leave your soft contact lenses in for an extra few days? We don't need to tell you that a lot of things are at their best when they are at their freshest. It's important to know that the same can be used to understand the importance of...

Do you know that cataracts are the leading source of deteriorating vision among those 55 and older? In fact, more than 50% of all people who are 65 and older has some degree of cataract development. And by the time they hit 80, it is likely that most people will...

It's a fact that basically everybody is exposed to UV rays. Even though this is the case, the potential risks related to years of exposure to these harsh rays aren't really thought about, and the majority of people barely take enough action to shield their eyes, even if they're planning...

Lake Country Optometry Second Annual Frame Show Saturday June 2, 2012 9-4pm Come join us for fantastic deals on eyewear at our second annual frame show and open house! Frame representatives will be on site with their entire line of frames for purchase, including Maui Jim, Lafont Paris, Izumi, Kliik...

May is healthy vision month. When was the last time you had a comprehensive eye exam? Getting your eyes tested annually is one of the most effective steps you can take to guarantee your eyes remain healthy. During your procedure, your optometrist thoroughly examines your eyes, making sure you're clear...

Great news for anyone in the market for dependable variable tint lenses: Transitions® Optical has announced an exciting product as part of their comprehensive range. It's called the Transitions® Vantage™ lens. The company has added a great new feature to their impressive light adapting lens with the addition of revolutionary...

Often, when either children an adults experience poor vision, it can be the result of several possible factors including anatomical changes or irregularities in the eye, diseases affecting the eye, side effects of medicine or eye injuries. Many people also report visual abnormalities associated with age or eye stress. This...

It's no surprise that the various stages of a woman's life often have a strong impact on her eye health and vision. Eye disease among the female population is being diagnosed in growing numbers, particularly in aging women. Actually, studies show that large numbers of women over the age of...

Lake Country Optometry joined Eye Recommend, a non-profit, co-operative network consisting of independent, progressive-thinking optometrists who provide full optometric services to their patients.  Each Doctors Eyecare practice is independent but as a group we share a common vision.  Each doctor maintains the highest standards of education, technical skills, and professional ethics, keeping patient welfare as their top priority. Members of Doctors Eyecare deliver comprehensive patient-centered eyecare integrated with high quality, high value vision products. 

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