Keep up-to-date on the latest vision-related news and eye care events in our Practice.
Nov 04, 2019
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...
Oct 23, 2019
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...
Oct 03, 2019
Good Eye Care Habits & Hygiene By practicing good eye care habits and hygiene, you can prevent many vision problems from occurring. Eye problems and the risks associated with vision loss only grow as you age. By neglecting eye care, you place yourself at a higher risk of suffering from...
Sep 24, 2019
Countless adults, teens and even children will be wearing colored contact lenses this Halloween, but few are aware of the risks involved. Ever wondered what those cat-eye contacts are doing to your eyes? If you got them without a prescription, beware of health complications. Enjoy a safe and happy Halloween...
Sep 16, 2019
September Is Sports Eye Safety Month! Ocular sports trauma is among the leading causes of permanent vision loss in North America. Tens of thousands of people get treated for sports-related eye injuries a year, with the most common injuries occurring during water sports and basketball. Infections, corneal abrasions, eye socket...
Aug 29, 2019
This summer, heat waves with scorching temperatures have hit communities nationwide, making an already hot summer even hotter. With high temps and heat waves in certain areas, it’s now more important than ever to protect yourself. For best practices and tips for maintaining healthy vision in the summer heat, talk...
Jul 22, 2019
July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and that is not surprising! With the summer season sun out and the hottest time of the year, it's now more vital than ever to safeguard your eyes from hazardous UV rays. Throughout this month, individuals who have actually experienced UV ray damage, their...
Jun 27, 2019
This summer, whether you're headed across state lines on a family road trip, flying off to Europe, grabbing a quick weekend getaway, or taking a vacation in your own backyard, don't forget to protect your eyes! Summer Eye Care Near You Check out our top 4 tips for ensuring healthy...
Jun 11, 2019
June is Cataract Awareness Month. During this important time, people living with cataracts (and their loved ones) are encouraged to talk about their personal experiences by giving each other helpful information and sharing their knowledge and advice. Use the hashtag #CataractAwarenessMonth on your social media channels to encourage and support...
May 22, 2019
Do your kids need glasses in order to see clearly? Maybe they have a strong case of nearsightedness, perhaps they have astigmatism, or another type of refractive error. Whatever the cause, getting your kids to wear eyeglasses can be a parenting challenge. Dr. Harold Ashcraft treats patients from all over Los...
May 20, 2019
Where Can I Find A Low Vision Doctor? Reading your favorite books is difficult. You squint a lot while watching TV. When friends or family come to visit, you find it hard to clearly see their faces. Driving is hard because the street signs, exit ramps, and other cars seem...
May 20, 2019
When To Contact A Low Vision Doctor: When You Can’t See To Do What You Want To Do When you break your leg, you feel the pain of the fracture and visit a doctor to repair the broken limb. When you hurt your back, you go to a chiropractor...
May 20, 2019
Why AMD Patients Need 2 Doctors Central vision is an important element of your overall vision, allowing you to see images and objects as you look straight ahead. This function affects your ability to read books, drive a car, watch TV, or recognize faces of the people you love....
May 08, 2019
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the USA; in Canada, Mental Health week is May 6th to 12th. Since 1949, it has been observed throughout the United States as a way of drawing attention to the importance of proper mental health. This year’s theme is #4Mind4Body. The idea is...
Apr 16, 2019
April is Parkinson's Awareness Month in the USA and Canada, a time when those living with the disorder, their family members, friends, and community come together to raise awareness and share helpful information. People with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and their loved ones are encouraged to share their stories, struggles, and...
Mar 19, 2019
Spring is a season of new beginnings, when the cold harsh winter months are behind us, flowers bloom, and people begin spending more time outdoors. For people with allergies, spring means one more thing: suffering. Spring may be in the air, but for allergy sufferers, so is pollen, pet dander,...
Mar 07, 2019
March 8th is International Women's Day, a day when women are honored and their accomplishments celebrated worldwide. From medicine to law, entrepreneurship to corporate leadership, education to the military, women are achieving great strides in areas of business like never before. In addition to professional achievements, International Women's Day is...
Feb 24, 2019
Most of us have the basics: bleach, oven cleaner, air freshener, furniture polish, and window spray. Did you know that chemicals found in these kinds of cleaning products can be toxic and harmful to your health? In small amounts, they generally don’t cause much damage. But when used on a...
Feb 07, 2019
It’s February and that means we’re smack in the middle of winter, which is also the middle of the school year. It’s the season when kids fervently hope for snow days and parents hope they don’t happen. As we head towards the second half of the school year, you’ve probably...
Jan 17, 2019
You’ve got Low Vision and you need some ways of minimizing the effects on your daily activities. One of the best ways to do this is with lighting. Changing the lighting in your home or office can make a significant, positive impact on your functional vision. Check out Dr. Harold...
Dec 19, 2018
Nerf Guns: Popular, Projectile... Safe? With the newest Nerf guns and blasters reigning at the top of lists for the most popular toys this holiday season, many parents are excited to surprise their kids (or their spouses) with these coveted toy weapons. There is, in fact a whole culture behind these...
Dec 06, 2018
Trouble Seeing Your Grandkids' Faces? Low Vision Devices Can Help Are you frustrated that your poor vision is it getting in the way of life? Is it hard to do simple things, such as seeing your adorable grandchildren's faces You’re not alone. Many people develop vision problems later in life,...
Nov 29, 2018
Whether you live in a climate with cold winter weather or you are planning a ski trip up north, winter can be a challenge if you suffer from dry eyes. Dry, cool air, cold winds and even drier indoor heating can cause eye irritation, burning, itchiness and redness, and sometimes...
Nov 12, 2018
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...
Oct 24, 2018
Brush Up Before You Dress Up Halloween is one of the most fun times of the year for children and adults alike. When else do you get to dress up as anyone (or anything) you want, socialize with friends and eat lots of treats? Nevertheless, lurking behind those costumes and...
Oct 10, 2018
Are you looking for the perfect Halloween costume this year? You may have considered how costume contacts can give you that finishing touch to make others say WOW. Yellow cat eyes, fiery blood red, white-out, or walking dead zombie—these are just a few of the colors and designs that are available....
Oct 08, 2018
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...
Sep 17, 2018
Screen Time Pros and Cons Whether it is homework, email, gaming, chatting with friends, searching the web or watching Youtube, kids these days seem to have an endless number of reasons to be glued to a screen. Many parents out there are wondering how bad this can be for their...
Sep 13, 2018
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 your eyes healthy and strong may require some lifestyle changes, but...
Aug 30, 2018
What Is Progressive Myopia? Nearsightedness or myopia is one of the most prevalent eye disorders worldwide and its incidence is increasing. In fact by 2050, myopia is projected to affect half of the world’s population! Many children diagnosed with nearsightedness (myopia) experience a consistent worsening of their vision as they...
Aug 09, 2018
An online eye test may seem like a convenient way to check your vision or get an eyeglass prescription but beware, these tests aren’t all they are chocked up to be. In fact, they may even be dangerous. What is an online eye test really testing? An online eye test...
Jul 26, 2018
Healthy eyes and good vision are essential for your child’s growth and development. In fact, learning is 80% visual, which means a child’s success in school, athletics and many other aspects of life can be impacted by poor vision. Good vision goes beyond how far you can see, and also...
Jul 16, 2018
It’s almost back to school time for college students and whether this is your first time away from home or you are already a pro, you want to be prepared with as much knowledge as possible to live safely on your own. This knowledge includes eye and vision safety, as...
Jul 12, 2018
Adults are not the only ones who need to protect themselves from the sun’s powerful rays. According to The Vision Council, kids receive almost three times the amount of sun exposure as adults. With the lengthy amount of time that kids spent outdoors, it is important that they protect their eyes...
Jun 27, 2018
We are lucky to live here in Los Angeles where we have so many beautiful sunny days throughout the year! While there are many perks to our beautiful weather, we also have to be aware of the dangers of the sun’s UV rays. Looking at data from the National Weather...
Jun 25, 2018
While it may seem like a harmless action, rubbing your eyes can actually cause a lot of damage. There are a number of different reasons that people rub their eyes and for the most part, it does more harm than good. While rubbing your eyes might feel really good in...
Jun 21, 2018
June is a special month. We celebrate Father’s Day and the official start of summer (today, in fact. Hooray!). But there is another important day on June 27th that we shouldn’t forget: National Sunglasses Day! That’s right, a day brought to us by the Vision Council that celebrates the importance of...
Jun 18, 2018
Migraine Awareness Month: An ocular migraine is any migraine headache that involves a visual disturbance such as flashes of light, seeing stars or zigzags or the appearance of blind spots in the visual field. Ocular migraines can interfere with your ability to go about your daily tasks such as driving,...
May 30, 2018
Sure, sunglasses might add the final touches to your chic ensemble, but the real reason to purchase your shades is to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only does glare from the sun make it difficult to see, but the UV rays it reflects can cause permanent damage to...
May 10, 2018
Vision is a critical component to succeed as an athlete and this doesn’t just mean having 20/20 vision. There are a number of visual processes that are involved in optimal sports performance, whether you are playing a weekly little league game or competing in professional sports. The eyes and the...
Apr 25, 2018
While we all know that regular eye exams can help detect warning signs of disease and prevent vision loss, many people fail to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem with the eye. In fact, only about half of Americans that are at risk for serious vision loss...
Apr 24, 2018
So, you found out you have astigmatism. (This whole time I actually thought it was called a “stigmatism”. Anyone else think the same?) This is one of the most common vision problems and luckily, it can be corrected! Here are some of your most commonly asked questions about astigmatism. What...
Apr 16, 2018
April is Women’s Eye Health Month in the USA and May is Healthy Vision month in Canada too, so let’s take the opportunity to look at some tips for maintaining eye and vision health, with a special focus on women. Statistically, women are more at risk than men for eye...
Apr 10, 2018
Every now and then, my upper eyelid starts to twitch at random times. The worst is when I am talking to someone and I am positive that they can see the tiny movements of my eyelid quivering. It usually does not last very long, but it is a nuisance and...
Mar 27, 2018
If you want strong, healthy eyes and clear vision for life, a major step you can take is to protect your eyes from UV radiation. Wearing proper eye protection from the sun reduces the risk of a number of eye diseases and other conditions that are caused or worsened by...
Mar 12, 2018
We all experience the occasional eyelid twitch, which is when the muscle of the eyelid spasms involuntarily. Usually, it comes and goes without intervention and while sure, it can be irritating, is a twitching eyelid ever something to be concerned about? An eyelid twitch, also known as a myokymia, can...
Feb 27, 2018
Infant Eyesight Despite nine months of growth in utero, babies are not born with fully developed eyes and vision - just like they can't walk or talk yet. Over the first few months of life, their visual systems continue to progress, stimulated by their surroundings. Babies will develop the ability...
Feb 18, 2018
It’s that time of the year again. Each February, the optometric community bands together to create awareness about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people 50 years and older; early detection plays a key role in the outcome of the disease. That’s why...
Feb 07, 2018
Women are busier than ever, making decisions all day, every day, for themselves and their families. The decision as to whether or not to get LASIK eye surgery is a major one that requires proper planning and timing. The key to picking the right time to get LASIK is when...
Jan 29, 2018
At this time of year when the sun sets early, many people are affected by night blindness. Night blindness or nyctalopia refers to difficulty seeing at night or in poor or dim lighting situations. It can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, sometimes completely benign and sometimes as a...
Jan 10, 2018
It happens every time. I mentally tell myself to “stay strong!” and I physically try to maintain my composure. But leave it to the onions to make me tear up and get a little bit weepy. Every. Single. Time. Why do our eyes have such a strong reaction to cutting...
Jan 10, 2018
It’s that time of year again. January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time set aside each year to create awareness about this potentially devastating disease. The reason awareness about glaucoma is so important is because as its nickname, The Sneak Thief of Sight, describes, the disease often causes permanent...
Jan 03, 2018
2018 is here! It’s a new year, which means many people are signing up for gym memberships, starting new diets, and resolving to have a healthier and happier year. Speaking of health— Did you know that smoking negatively affects every organ of your body? With every puff of smoke, thousands...
Dec 31, 2017
While most people have sunglasses high on their packing list for a tropical vacation, many people don’t consider it as much of a priority for colder climate getaways. But they should, and here’s why: Wintertime vacations often include activities that involve snow and ice and in general, conditions that can...
Dec 24, 2017
As the season to deck the halls arrives, make sure that you aren’t one of the many people who find themselves celebrating in the urgent care clinic due to an eye injury. The holidays present many opportunities for potential eye injury so it’s important to be aware and proceed with...
Dec 01, 2017
It is that time again. During the past few weeks it seems as though many people have been getting sick. People at work, family members, and friends have been talking about the runny nose, the sneezing, the body aches, and who knows what else taking hold on their bodies. There’s...
Nov 27, 2017
The New Year is coming and many people include healthier eating and exercise in their resolutions for the year ahead. Well other than weight loss and overall health and disease-prevention, a healthy diet and regular exercise can protect your eyes and your vision. In particular, there are certain vitamins and...
Nov 24, 2017
The holidays are an exciting time when we gather with friends and family to enjoy each other’s company and to take part in some of our favorite traditions. Unfortunately for some, the holidays bring other surprises—including last minute trips to the doctor or emergency room. Eye-related injuries tend to increase...
Nov 13, 2017
November 14th is World Diabetes Day. This year, the theme of World Diabetes Day is women and diabetes - our right to a healthy future. The goal of this campaign is to promote awareness of the importance of equal and affordable access for all women, whether they are at risk...
Nov 01, 2017
When I think of Thanksgiving, many things come to mind… The happiness I feel from gathering with loved ones and friends. The delicious aromas of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pies. Mmmm… Running in a local Turkey Trot, or thinking of doing it in the future. Having the “attitude of gratitude”...
Oct 29, 2017
October is World Blindness Awareness Month, an initiative started to help the public to understand the realities of visual impairment and how it affects the world population. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of millions of individuals around the world who are unnecessarily blind or visually impaired due to causes that are...
Oct 15, 2017
October has arrived and that means many people are already starting to plan for upcoming costume parties and trick-or-treating for the Halloween season. This is why now is the time to remind the public about some very important precautions about eye safety since there are some common costume props and...
Sep 27, 2017
While we want to look and feel our best, applying eye makeup can sometimes aggravate our sensitive eyes. I’m talking eye irritation, eye infections, and all that not-so-fun stuff. Here are a few suggestions for keeping those eyes as beautiful as possible when using makeup. Eye Makeup Safety—8 Tips To...
Sep 27, 2017
Every good pair of eyes eventually gets old and with age comes a condition called presbyopia. Presbyopia, which usually begins to set in some time around 40, occurs when the lens of the eye begins to stiffen, making near vision (such as reading books, menus, and computer screens) blurry. You...
Sep 19, 2017
Even if you don’t have any eye or vision problems, the natural process of aging affects your ability to see and react to visual stimuli. It’s important to know the impact the aging can have on your eyes and vision so you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe...
Aug 27, 2017
Many teens who wear glasses are eager to try out contact lenses for convenience, fashion or to just provide another option for vision correction.
Aug 16, 2017
Monday August 21st is approaching fast, which means people are ready to see the spectacular solar eclipse! Where will YOU be? Are you in the path of totality? Whether you will be seeing the total eclipse or even the partial eclipse, we have answered some of the questions you may...
Aug 13, 2017
What’s it like to be color blind? Contrary to what the name implies, color blindness usually does not actually mean that you don’t see any color, but rather that you have difficulty perceiving or distinguishing between certain colors. This is why many prefer the term color vision deficiency or CVD...
Jul 26, 2017
On August 21st, for the first time since 1979, a solar eclipse will be visible across North America. What's even more historic is that it will also be the first time an eclipse will be visible across the continent, from coast to coast, since 1918. If you want to bear...
Jul 24, 2017
More than just a fashion accessory, sunglasses are an important part of preserving our eye health. We know it is important to slather on sunscreen to protect our skin, but how many of us forget to protect our eyes? Too much exposure to the sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays can...
Jul 12, 2017
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which bright light - either natural sunlight or artificial light - can cause significant discomfort, pain and intolerance. People that experience light sensitivity will find themselves needing to close their eyes or squint when exposed to light and often experience...
Jul 04, 2017
Happy Independence Day, America! While the 4th of July is certainly one of America’s most celebrated holidays, there are a startling number of firework-related accidents that occur each year: 7600 firework-related injuries were treated in emergency departments across the country between June 18th and July 18th 2016.(CPSC, 2016) Over 9% of these injuries were...
Jun 26, 2017
What Exactly Is a Black Eye? A black eye, also known as a periorbital hematoma, is usually not an injury of the actual eye (which is why it is called “periorbital”- around the eye). It typically occurs when there is an injury to the face or the eye socket which...
Jun 19, 2017
According to the World Health Organization, cataracts are responsible for 51% of cases of blindness worldwide - although this blindness is preventable with treatment. In fact, research shows that in industrialized countries about 50% of individuals over the age of 70 have had a cataract in at least one eye....
Jun 08, 2017
“Dr. Ashcraft, I love the convenience of my contacts, but wearing them makes my eyes feel very dry. What should I do?” We commonly hear this comment and similar concerns from patients in our office. Just like the age-old question of whether the chicken or the egg came first, it may...
Jun 01, 2017
Four-year-old Evan knows how to keep himself busy. On any given day you can likely find him doing one of his favorite things—building Legos with Dad, pouring over his Star Wars books, or playing outside with his brother and sister. It was on Thanksgiving Day last year that Evan’s mom,...
May 28, 2017
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...
May 10, 2017
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...
May 02, 2017
Gets the red out! 10 hours of comfort! Protects and soothes irritated eyes! Fast acting! These are the promises made by over-the-counter (OTC) red eye relief products like Visine, Clear Eyes, and Murine. They advertise themselves as the solution to your red eye problems. Some of you are believers and keep your Visine...
Apr 30, 2017
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...
Apr 13, 2017
After an unusually wet winter, we are excited spring is here! Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, and the days are getting longer. While there is so much beauty all around, some people are suffering the downside of springtime: seasonal allergies. Yes, this includes sneezing, congestion, and runny noses. But did...
Apr 06, 2017
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...
Apr 06, 2017
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...
Mar 30, 2017
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...
Mar 15, 2017
Blue light. Do you know what it is? Do you know where it comes from, or how it can be harmful to your eyes? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you are not alone, yet it is important that you become aware to protect your eyes for...
Mar 11, 2017
5 Tips to Relieve Digital Eye Strain Share0Share0Pin The headaches. The dry, tired eyes. The blurry vision. The neck and shoulder pain. Sound familiar? Perhaps you can identify with this after putting in long hours at your work desk, or after too much browsing through social media. With laptops, tablets, and...
Mar 06, 2017
What does Jennifer Aniston have in common with you and millions of other Americans? Unless you are on the celebrity A-list and grace the cover of countless magazines and television screens, it is probably not what you think. Dry eye syndrome. Yep, that pesky condition that makes your eyes irritated,...
Feb 27, 2017
Eye color is a hereditary trait that depends on the genes of both parents, as well as a little bit of mystery. The color of the eye is based on the pigments in the iris, which is a colored ring of muscle located at the center of the eye (around...
Feb 22, 2017
It is amazing how much you can learn about someone in just a few seconds. A facial expression quickly lets you know if a person is happy or sad, bored or EXCITED, stressed or carefree. Your first impression may suggest if this person is friendly and likeable, or something on...
Feb 14, 2017
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,...
Feb 13, 2017
Happy Valentine’s Day! Men and women have done crazy things in the name of love. Some of these stories leave you wondering...
Jan 31, 2017
Your toddler may show every sign of good eyesight including the ability to see objects in the distance, however that doesn't necessarily mean that he or she doesn’t have a vision problem.
Jan 24, 2017
Photo by Kaique Rocha from Pexels https://www.pexels.com/photo/blur-cars-dew-drops-125510/ It is only a few weeks into the new year, but 2017 has already brought us something we have not seen in a while: RAIN. And lot’s of it. While you know we need it (California has been in a drought for a...
Jan 16, 2017
Make your resolution for healthy vision this year with increased awareness of the leading cause of blindness worldwide.
Dec 12, 2016
This is the one way you can be sure that you or your child’s eyes are truly safe during Nerf shooting:
Dec 06, 2016
Despite the fact that it is one of the most common eye problems, a surprisingly large percentage of patients are not aware of it.
Nov 21, 2016
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.
Nov 14, 2016
Red, itchy, watery eyes and swollen eyelids (along with sneezing, congestion or a runny nose)...
Oct 21, 2016
Most people wouldn’t consider contact lenses dangerous. In fact, they are a great alternative to glasses, offering convenience and great vision for those who wear them. However, when not obtained and used according to an eye doctor’s instructions, the consequences can be devastating. Contact Lenses Need to Fit Like shoes,...
Sep 27, 2016
90%! That’s the number of sports eye injuries that studies show can be prevented using proper eye protection. Yet most sports leagues don’t require protective eyewear as part of their uniform or safety requirements. This leaves it up to athletes, parents and coaches to ensure that proper measures are taken...
Sep 10, 2016
The excitement of the start of the school year is here! Between the busyness of meeting new teachers, buying school supplies and crisp new clothes, you may have overlooked one important task: scheduling an annual eye exam for your child. Vision has a big impact on your child’s success in school....
Aug 30, 2016
It is important to teach your children about eye health and safety from a young age. This includes awareness about how your overall health habits affect your eyes and vision as well as how to keep your eyes safe from injury and infection. Starting off with good eye habits at...
Aug 19, 2016
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...
Aug 06, 2016
Pokemon is a perfect example of old trends coming back into style. People everywhere are playing Pokemon Go. Just the day after the Pokemon app came out I was driving home from work when I noticed a couple neighborhood kids walking around like zombies. Curious, I asked what they were...
Jul 30, 2016
We have all seen the futuristic thrillers that use high-tech eye scanning identification systems but nowadays the technology does exist to use them in real life. A greater number of high security establishments have begun to use iris recognition for identification and security systems. How does it work? The iris...
Jul 22, 2016
There have been a lot of videos going viral lately of color blind people “seeing color” for the first time using specialized glasses. The emotional reactions of amazement, shock and joy even lead some to break down into tears. The glasses provide these individuals a way to view the world...
Jul 11, 2016
Everyone is at risk for glaucoma. However, certain groups are at higher risk than others. People at high risk for glaucoma should get a complete eye exam, including eye dilation, every one or two years. The following are groups at higher risk for developing glaucoma. African Americans After cataracts, glaucoma...
Jun 26, 2016
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...
Jun 19, 2016
After the age of 50 most people will eventually be diagnosed with cataracts. Cataracts are when the natural crystalline lens of the eyes become clouded, causing vision impairment that can not be corrected by glasses or contact lenses. While commonly an age-related condition, occasionally there are infants born with a...
May 26, 2016
According to the Vision Council’s 2016 UV (Ultraviolet Radiation) Protection report, parents are more likely to wear sunglasses (56%) than their children (only 29%!). Yet children, who spend much more time outside, are typically exposed to three times the amount of sunlight and UV radiation that adults get. This early...
Apr 26, 2016
A stye (known by eye doctors as a hordeolum) is an infection of an oil gland which forms a pimple-like bump on the base of the eyelid or within the eyelid itself. Styes can be uncomfortable, causing swelling, pain, redness, discomfort and sometimes excessive tearing or blurred vision if it...
Apr 17, 2016
Along with congestion, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, headaches and difficulty breathing, individuals with allergies often suffer from eye allergies or allergic conjunctivitis resulting in red, watery, itchy and sometimes swollen eyes. Just as irritants cause an allergic response in your nasal and respiratory system, your eyes also react with an...
Mar 30, 2016
If you are over 40 and have difficulty seeing close up, you probably have a common age-related condition called presbyopia which is when the eye’s natural lens loses the ability to focus on close objects. Presbyopia is a natural process that occurs as the eye ages and affects the majority of...
Mar 09, 2016
When people think of workplace dangers to the eyes, it is usually machinery, chemicals or construction materials that come to mind. However, a growing danger to the eyes is one that may be less obvious - exposure to blue light from digital devices, television and computer screens and artificial lighting....
Feb 28, 2016
Whether you are looking for regular prescription glasses, sunwear or protective sports eyewear, it can be tough choosing the best eyewear for children and teens. On the one hand, they need to be comfortable and provide the optimal fit for improved vision and protection. At the same time, they also...
Feb 10, 2016
February is AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month in the United States, and it’s White Cane Week in Canada. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults aged 50 and older. Awareness...
Jan 27, 2016
This year, make healthy eyes and vision your resolution. Find out if you or a loved one is at risk for glaucoma, and take steps for prevention. Glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable vision loss and blindness in adults in the United States and Canada and the second leading...
Dec 31, 2015
Refractive errors including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.
Dec 09, 2015
‘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.
Nov 23, 2015
Have you ever thought about how vision works? It's an incredible system and process!
Nov 02, 2015
Prevention and treatment for eye complications associated with Diabetes
Oct 25, 2015
Beware this Halloween and think before you blink (in decorative contact lenses that is)! Sure, decorative contact lenses can enhance any Halloween costume, but if not taken seriously, they can also cost you your vision. Whether they are sold as cosmetic lenses, colored lenses or fashion lenses, they are anything...
Sep 24, 2015
Over the centuries there have been a lot of old-wives tales circulating about eyes and vision. You know, like the one that if someone hits you on the back while your eyes are crossed they will stay that way. Unlike this example, some of these myths do have roots in...
Sep 03, 2015
There are thousands of eye injuries a year related to sports. According to the National Eye Institute eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in children in North America and most injuries occurring in school-aged children are sports-related. Further 99% of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented simply by...
Sep 02, 2015
We invite you to take a look around our new site to get to know our practice and learn about eye and vision health. You will find a wealth of information about our optometrists, our staff and our services, as well as facts and advice about how to take care...
Sep 02, 2015
Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is one of the most frequently seen eye diseases, especially in kids. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria or even allergies to pollen, chlorine in swimming pools, and ingredients in cosmetics, or other irritants, which touch the eyes. Some forms of conjunctivitis might be...
Aug 30, 2015
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...
Aug 16, 2015
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...
Jul 30, 2015
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...
Jul 24, 2015
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...
Jul 21, 2015
Independence Day may have passed but fireworks season is still in full swing and fireworks-related injury and death is a real and serious danger. According to the 2014 Annual Fireworks Report, compiled by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission there were at least 11 deaths and 10,500 injuries due to...
May 29, 2015
Your eyes are constantly at work for you, playing a vital role as you navigate through each day. As May is healthy vision month, here are some things to keep in mind: Know your genes While your eyes may be the same color as your father’s eyes, you may have...
May 17, 2015
According to Women’sEyeHealth.org, ⅔ of blindness and visual impairment occurs in women. Additionally, an estimated 75% of visual impairment is preventable or correctable with proper education and care. With the increased risks for women it’s critical for women to know about the risks and prevention to effectively protect their eyes...
Apr 30, 2015
Spring is in the air. But along with the beauty of the blooming flowers and budding trees, comes allergy season. The high pollen count and allergens floating in the fresh spring air can certainly wreak havoc on the comfort level of those suffering from allergies, causing an otherwise nature-loving individual...
Mar 31, 2015
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...
Mar 19, 2015
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...
Mar 11, 2015
Digital devices have impacted our world in so many positive ways, allowing us to connect, work, play and get information at the speed of light. But all of this good brings with it a measure of concern: Digital Eye Strain or Computer Vision Syndrome. Focusing on your vision on digital...
Mar 09, 2015
Today’s guest blogger is Dr. Ida Chung. Dr. Chung is currently the president of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD). She is also the Director of Optometric Education at Western University College of Optometry. COVD has always been on the right track when it comes to what is best...
Feb 12, 2015
February is Low Vision and Age-Related Macular Degeneration awareness month. Low vision describes a set of conditions in which there is significant visual impairment which can not be corrected with traditional means such as glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery. Low vision includes a loss of visual acuity which...
Feb 11, 2015
New research about cataract development could lead to progress in pharmaceuticals and dietary approaches designed to delay cataract onset. A team of scientists at Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (USDA HNRCA) at Tufts University found that a communication breakdown might be responsible for causing cataracts. Cataracts develop with...
Feb 05, 2015
Low vision means that even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery, people find everyday tasks difficult to do. Reading the mail, shopping, cooking, seeing the TV, and writing can seem challenging. But, many people with low vision are taking charge. Living With Low Vision By making better use of their...
Jan 27, 2015
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. 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...
Jan 26, 2015
It’s arguably the most recognizable visual (excuse the pun) in the field of optometry and ophthalmology – the Snellen chart. So, it’s only fitting that we recognize founder Herman Snellen today, on the anniversary his death today in 1908. Dutch ophthalmologist Snellen developed the chart in 1862 to measure visual...
Jan 21, 2015
WHAT IS DIGITAL EYE STRAIN? On average, more than nine in 10 adults (93.3 percent) spend more than two hours each day using a digital device, with more than six in 10 adults (60.8 percent) spending five or more hours on digital devices each day. Whether it’s for work or...
Dec 31, 2014
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....
Dec 22, 2014
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...
Dec 18, 2014
Many kids love their (and their parents’!) ipads, tablets, computer games and other electronic screens. But can these devices cause trouble for their eyes? Exactly what is an ipad’s effect on child’s vision? According to the AOA (American Optometric Association), not only do kids experience the same symptoms related to...
Dec 04, 2014
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...
Nov 25, 2014
November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month. Do you know the facts?
Oct 31, 2014
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,...
Oct 23, 2014
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....
Sep 28, 2014
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...
Sep 18, 2014
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...
Aug 27, 2014
A futuristic, yet simplistic, eye implant paired with a smartphone app may change the way eye doctors treat glaucoma.
Aug 24, 2014
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...
Jul 24, 2014
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...
Jul 17, 2014
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...
Jun 29, 2014
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. As June is Cataract Awareness Month, here are some facts you should know to help you recognize cataracts and prevent permanent vision loss. ...
Jun 19, 2014
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...
May 22, 2014
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...
Apr 29, 2014
It can be devastating for a tween or teen to be told he or she needs to wear glasses, especially if it is sudden. Many tweens and teenagers are concerned about how glasses will affect their appearance, whether they will be made fun of (which unfortunately is a legitimate concern...
Apr 17, 2014
Spring is on the way. Soon the sun will be shining, the flowers blooming and allergy season will be upon us. If you have allergies, your eyes are often affected by the high pollen count along with other allergens floating in the fresh spring air. Tree pollens in April and...
Mar 31, 2014
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...
Mar 16, 2014
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...
Feb 27, 2014
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...
Feb 20, 2014
February is low vision awareness month. 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...
Jan 31, 2014
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...
Jan 29, 2014
7 Facts You Should Know About Glaucoma Glaucoma, which refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, is often called 'the silent thief of sight'. This nickname evolved because the disease creeps up unnoticed in its early stages, causing no pain and few, if any symptoms....
Dec 31, 2013
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...
Dec 11, 2013
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...
Nov 25, 2013
Diabetes affects people of all ages, races and genders. An estimated 25.8 million Americans or 8.3 percent of the population suffer from the disease, according to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2011. In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of new cases...
Nov 18, 2013
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...
Oct 30, 2013
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...
Oct 14, 2013
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...
Sep 29, 2013
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...
Sep 24, 2013
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...
Sep 12, 2013
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...
Aug 26, 2013
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...
Jul 31, 2013
The first weekend of August (August 3rd and 4th) has been marked as the 2nd annual Great Glasses Play Day. The event, which first launched in 2012 was created for parents, eye care professionals, educators and children who wear glasses or have other vision challenges to celebrate and create awareness...
Jul 19, 2013
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. As July is Eye Injury Prevention Month, here are a number of practical first aid tips to remember if you or anyone you know...
Jun 30, 2013
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...
Jun 24, 2013
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...
Jun 17, 2013
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...
Jan 29, 2013
Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is one of the most frequently seen eye diseases, especially in kids. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria or even allergies to pollen, chlorine in swimming pools, and ingredients in cosmetics, or other irritants, which touch the eyes. Some forms of conjunctivitis might be...
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