Astigmatism is an irregular curvature of the front surface of the eye that results in blurred vision at all distances. It is a common refractive error, just like nearsightedness and farsightedness. It is usually a condition from birth that progresses over time. Eyeglasses, contact lenses and refractive surgery are all effective treatments for astigmatism.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s crystalline lens that usually develops slowly over time. (In the case of post-traumatic cataracts, however, they can also occur very quickly.) It is the leading cause of poor vision in adults.Symptoms: Dimmed or blurred vision, double vision, halos or glare around lights, dull colors, sensation of a film over the eyes, frequent cleaning of the eyes, difficulty driving or reading, and frequent changing or cleaning of glasses.Treatment: If a cataract grows larger or denser, it can be surgically removed. It is a safe procedure with a near 100 percent success rate. Following surgery, it is normal to require a change in spectacle correction.Prevention: Wearing UV protection when outdoors is very helpful. There is also some evidence to suggest that a diet high in beta carotene (vitamin A), selenium and vitamins C and E have preventative benefits. Avoiding cigarette smoke, air pollution and alcohol consumption may also help.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy, as the name suggests, is associated with diabetes. It is best described as damage to the retina that occurs because of defects in or leakage from the fine blood vessels. The vast majority of those with early diabetic retinopathy are unaware of it. In advanced cases, it can result in vision blurriness and distortion.Diabetics should ensure they see their Optometrist regularly, scheduling annual eye exams. Since it is a progressive disease, it can cause blindness over time if left untreated. Your Optometrist can provide the invaluable advice and treatment diabetics require.
Dry Eyes
Dry eyes arise from inadequate or poor lubrication and moisture in one or both eyes. Unable to produce enough tears, afflicted eyes suffer irritation, burning, and general discomfort.Dry eyes may be caused by a number of factors: the natural effects of aging, side effects from medication, or significant time spent in a dry climate. Although there is no cure as such, your Optometrist is able to offer effective treatment to manage dry eyes. Artificial lubricating eye drops enhance tear production, and moist compresses as well as lid massages can help treat dry eyes.
Farsightedness
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a common refractive error. Approximately 25 per cent of the general population may be affected. Farsighted individuals see better in the distance than up close because the eye does not effectively focus light. Farsightedness is very common among elementary school-age children and a frequent cause of reading and learning difficulties.Refractive errors such as hyperopia are commonly corrected by eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery is another possibility.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition in which elevated pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve, causing peripheral and total blindness. It is widely noted as the second-leading cause of blindness in the U.S.Symptoms: There may be no early warning signs, so optometric exams are crucial. Otherwise, pain, blurred vision and the appearance of colored rings around lights are leading indicators.Treatment: Once diagnosed, glaucoma treatments are highly effective. Prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment or even surgery may be involved. If untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness, and there are no cures.Prevention: Because there may be few symptoms, and vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored (the condition can only be halted), frequent monitoring for glaucoma is essential. The risk for glaucoma increases dramatically after age 35 and is often hereditary.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a disease of the eye in which the cornea becomes distorted slowly over time. Symptoms may not be obvious, as they are vision and eye health conditions themselves, such as light sensitivity, nearsightedness and astigmatism. It is not clear how keratoconus may develop, although heredity may play a role.Since keratoconus is a progressive disease, appropriate treatment varies over time. Simple correction may suffice at an early stage, followed by rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, and eventually a cornea transplant.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a condition in which the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp reading vision) fails to function efficiently. It is a common cause of impaired reading or detailed vision—the leading cause of blindness worldwide, in fact. Macular degeneration is generally age-related.Symptoms: Initial signs include blurred reading vision, a weakening of colour vision, distortion or loss of central vision (e.g., a dark spot in the middle of your field of vision), and distortion in vertical lines.Treatment: Although there is no cure, laser treatment can be effective in slowing the disease’s progression. As usual, early detection is key.Prevention: Lifelong UV protection is very important. General nutrition is also believed to play a significant preventative role. Zinc may be especially helpful in this regard, particularly for zinc-deficient people like seniors. There is also some evidence to suggest that a diet high in beta carotene (vitamin A) and vitamins C and E can protect the macula. However, an over-abundance of any vitamin may affect your body’s ability to absorb important nutrients. This is a matter of some debate among health care professionals.
Nearsightedness
Myopia, more popularly known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error. Approximately a quarter of the general population may be affected. Myopic individuals see better up close than in the distance. This is because the eye improperly focuses too much light, causing blurred vision in the distance.Refractive errors are commonly corrected by eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery and Ortho-Keratology are two other possibilities.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is an inevitable condition in which the ability to focus on close objects decreases over time. Since it is a natural effect of aging, it is extremely commonplace. In recent years, an estimated four million new cases of presbyopia have been diagnosed. Today’s “baby boomer” generation is the most rapidly growing population segment requiring vision correction.Symptoms: Headaches, blurred near-distance vision, tearing, stinging, or a need for more light. People with presbyopia often hold reading material at arm’s length.Treatment: Reading glasses (typically bifocals) or special contact lenses are useful treatments, although the period of adjustment can vary widely. All told, there is a wide range of corrective options to review with your Optometrist.Prevention: There is no recognized prevention available, although focusing difficulties can be relieved with corrective lenses.Further questions: For such a common condition, there are many misconceptions about presbyopia. For example, it does not affect a person’s lifestyle, but presbyopia can require frequent prescription changes after age 40.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from the pigment epithelium. It is often caused by holes or tears in the retina, by a tumor, or by fluid pressure in the area. Retinal detachment occurs among the elderly or, sometimes, following head or eye injuries. There is also a higher rate of incidence among the extremely myopic. B.C. MSP coverage for such patients allows for more frequent eye exams.In some cases it can be surgically treated. Apart from a sudden loss of vision, other (early) symptoms may include light flashes or an unusual number of “spots and floaters.”
Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited diseases developing inside the pigmented area of the retina of the eye. They tend to become apparent between age 10 and 30, although some types of retinitis pigmentosa occur in childhood or later in life. Vision changes include night blindness, loss of side vision, and “tunnel vision.”The most common symptom of retinitis pigmentosa is a personal history of visual problems at dusk or in low light. This problem cannot be helped by corrective lenses, however, because the retina itself is deteriorating. Your optometrist can help you adapt to living with retinitis pigmentosa.
Spots and Floaters
Spots and floaters are tiny flecks or threads, which seem to float in front of your eyes. They are experienced by most people. They are often caused by particles of protein trapped in the fluid inside the eye, or by the deterioration of the fluid due to advancing age.Occasionally they are the result of certain eye diseases or injuries, or they may signal the development of more serious conditions such as retinal detachment. They are usually harmless, but those experiencing a sudden change or increase in “spots and floaters” or flashes of light should consult their eye doctor.
Strabismus
Strabismus or “crossed eyes” is a misalignment of the eyes. One or both eyes may turn in (esotropia), out (exotropia), up (hypertropia) or down (hypotropia). Treatment may include the use of eyeglasses, contact lenses, prisms and/or vision therapy. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed.
Styes
A stye is a visible infection that appears at the edges of an eyelid. Its appearance can vary somewhat, but it is harmless to your vision. Symptoms include a noticeable swelling, some discomfort and tenderness in the affected area.Most styes heal without treatment, although the application of a hot compress can help. Unlike a pimple, however, styes cannot be manually ruptured and drained. Antibiotic ointments are available for recurring cases.
An optometrist performs eye exams, prescribes glasses and contact lenses, and helps diagnose and manage eye conditions. They also monitor your overall eye health and vision changes over time.
What is the difference between an optometrist and an optician?
An optometrist examines your eyes, prescribes vision correction, and manages eye health. An optician fits and adjusts glasses and lenses based on the prescription provided.
How often should I have an eye exam?
Most adults should have an eye exam every 1–2 years, depending on age, vision, and health needs. Children, seniors, and patients with diabetes or eye conditions may need more frequent exams.
How long does an eye exam take?
A comprehensive eye exam usually takes about 30–60 minutes. The length may vary depending on additional testing or contact lens fittings.
What are progressive lenses?
Progressive lenses provide clear vision at distance, intermediate, and near without visible lines on the lens. They are commonly used for patients who need help seeing both far away and up close.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?
Yes, many patients with astigmatism can comfortably wear contact lenses. Special toric lenses are designed specifically to correct astigmatism.
Why do my eyes hurt after screen time?
Extended screen use can lead to digital eye strain, causing dryness, fatigue, and discomfort. Taking regular breaks and blinking more often can help reduce symptoms.
Can vision problems cause headaches?
Yes, uncorrected vision problems and eye strain can contribute to headaches. An eye exam can help determine if your vision is part of the cause.
How do I book an eye exam?
You can book an appointment by calling our clinic or using our online booking system. Our team will help you find a convenient time for your visit.
Do you accept walk-ins?
We do our best to accommodate walk-ins when availability allows. Booking an appointment ahead of time is recommended to minimize wait times.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept many major vision insurance plans and can help verify your coverage before your appointment. Please contact our office with your insurance information for details.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, we provide urgent eye care for issues such as red eyes, infections, flashes and floaters, sudden vision changes, and eye injuries. Please call the clinic as soon as possible for urgent concerns.
At what age should a child have their first eye exam?
Children should have their first eye exam between 6 and 12 months of age. Regular eye exams are important to monitor healthy visual development.
How do I know if my child needs glasses?
Signs may include squinting, headaches, sitting too close to screens, eye rubbing, or difficulty concentrating. A comprehensive eye exam can determine if glasses are needed.
Are screen devices harmful to children’s eyes?
Too much screen time can contribute to eye strain, dryness, and fatigue in children. Regular breaks, outdoor activity, and proper viewing habits can help protect their visual comfort.
Eye health
Eye Diseases & Visual Conditions
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is an irregular curvature of the front surface of the eye that results in blurred vision at all distances. It is a common refractive error, just like nearsightedness and farsightedness. It is usually a condition from birth that progresses over time. Eyeglasses, contact lenses and refractive surgery are all effective treatments for astigmatism.
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s crystalline lens that usually develops slowly over time. (In the case of post-traumatic cataracts, however, they can also occur very quickly.) It is the leading cause of poor vision in adults.Symptoms: Dimmed or blurred vision, double vision, halos or glare around lights, dull colors, sensation of a film over the eyes, frequent cleaning of the eyes, difficulty driving or reading, and frequent changing or cleaning of glasses.Treatment: If a cataract grows larger or denser, it can be surgically removed. It is a safe procedure with a near 100 percent success rate. Following surgery, it is normal to require a change in spectacle correction.Prevention: Wearing UV protection when outdoors is very helpful. There is also some evidence to suggest that a diet high in beta carotene (vitamin A), selenium and vitamins C and E have preventative benefits. Avoiding cigarette smoke, air pollution and alcohol consumption may also help.
Diabetic retinopathy, as the name suggests, is associated with diabetes. It is best described as damage to the retina that occurs because of defects in or leakage from the fine blood vessels. The vast majority of those with early diabetic retinopathy are unaware of it. In advanced cases, it can result in vision blurriness and distortion.Diabetics should ensure they see their Optometrist regularly, scheduling annual eye exams. Since it is a progressive disease, it can cause blindness over time if left untreated. Your Optometrist can provide the invaluable advice and treatment diabetics require.
Dry eyes arise from inadequate or poor lubrication and moisture in one or both eyes. Unable to produce enough tears, afflicted eyes suffer irritation, burning, and general discomfort.Dry eyes may be caused by a number of factors: the natural effects of aging, side effects from medication, or significant time spent in a dry climate. Although there is no cure as such, your Optometrist is able to offer effective treatment to manage dry eyes. Artificial lubricating eye drops enhance tear production, and moist compresses as well as lid massages can help treat dry eyes.
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a common refractive error. Approximately 25 per cent of the general population may be affected. Farsighted individuals see better in the distance than up close because the eye does not effectively focus light. Farsightedness is very common among elementary school-age children and a frequent cause of reading and learning difficulties.Refractive errors such as hyperopia are commonly corrected by eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery is another possibility.
Glaucoma is a condition in which elevated pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve, causing peripheral and total blindness. It is widely noted as the second-leading cause of blindness in the U.S.Symptoms: There may be no early warning signs, so optometric exams are crucial. Otherwise, pain, blurred vision and the appearance of colored rings around lights are leading indicators.Treatment: Once diagnosed, glaucoma treatments are highly effective. Prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment or even surgery may be involved. If untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness, and there are no cures.Prevention: Because there may be few symptoms, and vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored (the condition can only be halted), frequent monitoring for glaucoma is essential. The risk for glaucoma increases dramatically after age 35 and is often hereditary.
Keratoconus is a disease of the eye in which the cornea becomes distorted slowly over time. Symptoms may not be obvious, as they are vision and eye health conditions themselves, such as light sensitivity, nearsightedness and astigmatism. It is not clear how keratoconus may develop, although heredity may play a role.Since keratoconus is a progressive disease, appropriate treatment varies over time. Simple correction may suffice at an early stage, followed by rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, and eventually a cornea transplant.
Macular degeneration is a condition in which the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp reading vision) fails to function efficiently. It is a common cause of impaired reading or detailed vision—the leading cause of blindness worldwide, in fact. Macular degeneration is generally age-related.Symptoms: Initial signs include blurred reading vision, a weakening of colour vision, distortion or loss of central vision (e.g., a dark spot in the middle of your field of vision), and distortion in vertical lines.Treatment: Although there is no cure, laser treatment can be effective in slowing the disease’s progression. As usual, early detection is key.Prevention: Lifelong UV protection is very important. General nutrition is also believed to play a significant preventative role. Zinc may be especially helpful in this regard, particularly for zinc-deficient people like seniors. There is also some evidence to suggest that a diet high in beta carotene (vitamin A) and vitamins C and E can protect the macula. However, an over-abundance of any vitamin may affect your body’s ability to absorb important nutrients. This is a matter of some debate among health care professionals.
Myopia, more popularly known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error. Approximately a quarter of the general population may be affected. Myopic individuals see better up close than in the distance. This is because the eye improperly focuses too much light, causing blurred vision in the distance.Refractive errors are commonly corrected by eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery and Ortho-Keratology are two other possibilities.
Presbyopia is an inevitable condition in which the ability to focus on close objects decreases over time. Since it is a natural effect of aging, it is extremely commonplace. In recent years, an estimated four million new cases of presbyopia have been diagnosed. Today’s “baby boomer” generation is the most rapidly growing population segment requiring vision correction.Symptoms: Headaches, blurred near-distance vision, tearing, stinging, or a need for more light. People with presbyopia often hold reading material at arm’s length.Treatment: Reading glasses (typically bifocals) or special contact lenses are useful treatments, although the period of adjustment can vary widely. All told, there is a wide range of corrective options to review with your Optometrist.Prevention: There is no recognized prevention available, although focusing difficulties can be relieved with corrective lenses.Further questions: For such a common condition, there are many misconceptions about presbyopia. For example, it does not affect a person’s lifestyle, but presbyopia can require frequent prescription changes after age 40.
Retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from the pigment epithelium. It is often caused by holes or tears in the retina, by a tumor, or by fluid pressure in the area. Retinal detachment occurs among the elderly or, sometimes, following head or eye injuries. There is also a higher rate of incidence among the extremely myopic. B.C. MSP coverage for such patients allows for more frequent eye exams.In some cases it can be surgically treated. Apart from a sudden loss of vision, other (early) symptoms may include light flashes or an unusual number of “spots and floaters.”
Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited diseases developing inside the pigmented area of the retina of the eye. They tend to become apparent between age 10 and 30, although some types of retinitis pigmentosa occur in childhood or later in life. Vision changes include night blindness, loss of side vision, and “tunnel vision.”The most common symptom of retinitis pigmentosa is a personal history of visual problems at dusk or in low light. This problem cannot be helped by corrective lenses, however, because the retina itself is deteriorating. Your optometrist can help you adapt to living with retinitis pigmentosa.
Spots and floaters are tiny flecks or threads, which seem to float in front of your eyes. They are experienced by most people. They are often caused by particles of protein trapped in the fluid inside the eye, or by the deterioration of the fluid due to advancing age.Occasionally they are the result of certain eye diseases or injuries, or they may signal the development of more serious conditions such as retinal detachment. They are usually harmless, but those experiencing a sudden change or increase in “spots and floaters” or flashes of light should consult their eye doctor.
Strabismus or “crossed eyes” is a misalignment of the eyes. One or both eyes may turn in (esotropia), out (exotropia), up (hypertropia) or down (hypotropia). Treatment may include the use of eyeglasses, contact lenses, prisms and/or vision therapy. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed.
A stye is a visible infection that appears at the edges of an eyelid. Its appearance can vary somewhat, but it is harmless to your vision. Symptoms include a noticeable swelling, some discomfort and tenderness in the affected area.Most styes heal without treatment, although the application of a hot compress can help. Unlike a pimple, however, styes cannot be manually ruptured and drained. Antibiotic ointments are available for recurring cases.
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cookies is anonymous.
Google Analytics is a performance cookie used to track visits to
our
website and user behaviour on site. The data collected is anonymous and is used for
benchmarking purposes to monitor the performance of our site and to measure user
engagement on our site.
Social media cookies from social media sites such as
Facebook, Instagram, and
Pinterest
are used to enable social media buttons on our site to work. Social media buttons
allow
you to share content and interact with your social network. These social media
platform
may set their own cookies on your device. We do not control the settings of these
cookies so we suggest you check the social media website for more information about
their cookies and how to manage them. Our website will not collect or store any
personally identifiable information from the user. To find out how you can opt out
of
accepting these cookies, please visit the cookie policy and privacy policies of the
social media site.
Customizer cookies allow our site to remember your preferences, helping to
customize your experience on our site.
Our customizer cookie, which helps us to manage the technology and cookies which are
used across our site.
Targeting/advertising cookies are set by third party advertising partners
through our digital touchpoints to build profiles based on your interests. These cookies
enable
us to send you relevant content and advertising based on your preferences and track the
effectiveness of our ad campaigns.
Below are several advertising and targeting cookies that are used to identify
different
browsers and devices. They collect data anonymously for the purposes of ad
selection,
reporting, behavioural targeting, and cross-device advertising (i.e. associating
multiple devices together). In some instances, we may provide a hashed version of
your
email address or other information to the platform provider for such proposes. More
information can be found at the following links.
How do you change cookie preferences or block cookies?
Within your browser, you can choose whether you wish to accept cookies or not. Different browsers
make different controls available to you. Generally, your browser will offer you the choice to
accept, refuse or delete cookies at all times, or those from providers that website owners use
i.e.
third party cookies, or those from specific websites. Each browser’s website should contain
instructions on how you can do this.
If you block cookies on our website, you may be unable to access certain areas of our website and
certain functions and pages will not work in the usual way.
Changes to the Cookie Policy
We may update this Policy from time to time. If we make significant changes we will let you know
but
please regularly check this Policy to ensure you are aware of the most updated version.
This Cookie Policy was last updated on February 10, 2025.
