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Myopia — nearsightedness — affects your ability to see faraway objects. Unless myopia is managed during childhood, it raises the risk of developing sight-threatening eye diseases later in life. Find out more about myopia management.

Is your vision blurred, or do you experience other vision problems following your head injury? A Neuro-Optometrist near you will tailor a treatment program to help you see clearly again.

Here’s what you need to know about why visual problems can go undetected, and how vision therapy can help your child develop healthy vision.

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!

Depression is an illness that can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including the eyes. Researchers are currently investigating whether depression can cause dry eye symptoms.

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

Can you pass myopia, or nearsightedness, onto your kids? According to research, there is definitely a genetic component. Fortunately, myopia management can slow myopia progression.

Your child's eyesight may be excellent but have subpar visual skills that keep them from reaching their potential. Vision therapy can improve visual skills and boost your child’s performance in school and in sports.

Macular degeneration is a major cause of vision loss. Here are 6 ways to help lower your risk of developing this sight-threatening condition.

A blow to the head can badly disrupt the connection between your brain and your eyes and cause problems like blurry or double vision and sensitivity to light. Fortunately, a neuro-optometrist can treat your concussion-related visual symptoms.

If your child spends too much time in front of screens, it’s important to set limits and establish routines to protect both their general health and their eye health and help prevent the development or progression of myopia.

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.

Did you know that spending time in a climate-controlled airplane cabin can dry out your eyes? Find out what you can do to keep your eyes hydrated the next time you fly.

A head tilt or turn isn’t just a physical quirk. It can be a sign of a vision problem that may have a neurological basis. If turning or tilting your head helps you see better, schedule an eye exam with a neuro-optometrist to identify the underlying cause.

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.

Vision therapy trains the eyes to move and focus properly. It is especially suitable for children, whose visual problems can often be resolved when diagnosed and treated early on.

There are many reasons why your eyes may feel itchy and sore. However, new research suggests that these symptoms can also be linked to COVID-19.

Does your child struggle at school or with reading? The following toys and games can help develop important visual skills to help your child thrive in school and in life.

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.

Research suggests that children who are obese may have a higher risk of developing high myopia. Read up to learn why and discover what you can do about it.

3D vision plays a key role in our ability to safely and securely navigate many facets of our everyday lives. We’ve compiled our top 4 reasons why 3D vision is so important.

After brain surgery, patients may experience double vision (diplopia) resulting from a disruption of the ocular muscles or nerves. Prism glasses and neuro-optometric rehabilitation can help correct post-surgery diplopia.

An eyelid twitch can develop for a number of reasons, and most of the time it’s not a cause for concern. Find out what may be causing your eye to twitch and what can relieve it.

Isotretinoin, popularly known as Accutane, is a very effective acne medication that may cause eye dryness. In this article, we explain why it causes dry eye symptoms and what you can do to prevent or treat such an occurrence.

For many children, COVID-19 restrictions have meant more time indoors, and more time spent on digital screens. According to research studies, this has led to a worrying increase in myopia progression. Fortunately, there are ways to slow and sometimes stop myopia from worsening.

Your children's vision is their primary window into the world around them. Keeping their eyesight healthy is an important part of allowing them to experience life to the fullest. Read these 5 tips!

If your child spends a significant amount of time playing online video games, here’s what you need to know about how it can contribute to the onset and progression of myopia — nearsightedness.

With an increase in online learning comes an increase in digital eye strain and convergence insufficiency, two conditions that can be effectively treated with vision therapy.

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.

Blinking plays a crucial role in maintaining the right amount of moisture on the eye’s surface. If you don’t blink properly or enough, it can leave your eyes feeling dry and irritated. Fortunately, there are certain blinking exercises you can perform to prevent your eyes from becoming dry.

Collisions are a fact of life for many amateur and professional athletes. Unfortunately, head injuries raise their risk of developing sometimes incapacitating conditions and diseases in the future. Here are 6 conditions associated with sustaining multiple concussions.

Kids, like adults, are spending more time online. At some point during the COVID-19 pandemic, many children attended school via Zoom and completed assignments online. The trend toward more screen time — whether playing games or being in touch with friends — is likely to continue even after everyone returns...

Children whose visual skills aren’t fully developed find it difficult and frustrating to read. Learn why your child may not want to read, and how vision therapy can help.

Red, itchy, irritated eyes are no fun. Here are 7 tips for alleviating the discomfort of dry eye syndrome.

Not sure if you should have LASIK surgery? Here are a few reasons why ortho-k lenses make a great alternative to refractive surgery.

A blow to the head may result in a blow to one’s self-esteem. Read on to learn why and how a neuro-optometrist can help.

Creating healthy living habits is a great way to preserve your vision throughout your lifetime. These can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.

Have you ever gotten up from the table after enjoying a meal and noticed that things appeared fuzzy or blurry? If so, you may have experienced a temporary spike in blood sugar that affected your eyes.  If your vision is often blurred after meals, you should schedule a visit to...

People with autism have trouble processing and responding to sensory input, including visual input. What many don’t realize is that visual problems may be causing or contributing to the visual sensory issues some autistic people experience. When this is the case, vision therapy can often help.

Myopia (nearsightedness) is the most common refractive error in children. While glasses and contact lenses can help correct a person’s vision, they don’t cure or slow the progression of myopia.

Dry eye syndrome can leave your eyes red, irritated, and itchy. If you ignore your symptoms, other complications can arise. Treating your dry eye syndrome is essential for your eye health and vision.

Eye care is just as important for children as it is for adults. The sooner you teach your children how to care for their eyes, the more likely they will be to ingrain these habits for life. Here are some tips for kids!

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.

Poor visual skills can impact a child's self-esteem and confidence levels. Find out how vision therapy can unlock your child’s hidden potential and offer them the confidence and happiness they deserve.

Mosquito bites are annoying but on the eyelid they can be particularly uncomfortable and even impact your vision. Find out what you can do to treat the bite at home, and when it's a good idea to contact your optometrist.

Playing outdoors offers numerous benefits, including delaying the onset of myopia. Read on to learn why that is, and learn why slowing myopia progression is vital for your child’s eye health.

Do you have a lump on your eyelid? It could be a chalazion. Learn what a chalazion is, how to treat it and prevent it from recurring.

Lyme disease, an infection caused by a tick bite, can affect many parts of your body, including your eyes. Learn how Lyme disease can harm your eyes if not treated promptly.

Post traumatic vision syndrome is a group of visual deficits caused by a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Fortunately, neuro-optometric rehabilitation can improve your functional vision post-TBI so that you can get back to doing the things you love most.

It's important to understand that vision and learning are intertwined. Make sure your child’s vision isn’t holding them back from succeeding in school by scheduling a comprehensive eye evaluation today!

Do people with dry eye syndrome have to forgo wearing eyeliner and other eye makeup? Although eyeliner can lead to meibomian gland dysfunction, there are steps you can take to safely wear eye makeup without compromising your eye health.

Is your child nearsighted (myopic)? Here’s what you need to know about myopia and how it can lead to sight-threatening eye disease in the future.

Aging and certain lifestyle choices can affect your vision, especially if you’re in your 50’s and up. While it’s normal for your eyes and vision to change, there are certain actions you can take to protect your sight.  6 Tips for 50+ Eye Health Eat Well A well-balanced diet helps...

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.

Is your child showing signs of a vision problem? Discover the different signs and symptoms that can indicate a vision problem, and learn what you can do to help your child thrive.

If you wear contact lenses, you likely appreciate the freedom it provides. But did you know that wearing contact lenses in water or while sleeping can damage your eyes?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can impact your vision, making it difficult to do simple tasks like reading and driving. Here are a few things you can do to avoid getting a TBI.

Choosing the right eye drops to relieve dry eye syndrome can be a real challenge, as there are several brands and products on the market. Learn all about the types of artificial tears available and start feeling better today.

If you wake up in the morning with itchy, burning eyes, you may have dry eye syndrome. Wonder how this happens when your eyes are closed all night? Read on to find out!

In most cases, a stroke leaves survivors with lasting visual symptoms that can make it hard to function. Thankfully, a neuro-optometrist can help by identifying any overt and nuanced visual dysfunction and providing neuro-optometric rehabilitation therapy.

Lazy eye (amblyopia) affects the vision of the affected eye, causing blurry vision even with corrective eyewear. Learn what may be causing your child’s lazy eye and how vision therapy can help.

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.

More and more children are being diagnosed with myopia, a common refractive error associated with developing serious eye diseases later in life, such as macular degeneration and glaucoma. Find out what myopia is and how to prevent it from progressing

Here’s another reason for parents to send their kids out to play. Research shows that spending 2 hours or more outdoors lowers the risk of developing myopia and slows its progression.

Although caffeine has a diuretic and drying effect, it also has tear-producing properties that can potentially lessen your dry eye symptoms.

It’s important to get the facts straight. Here are 5 myths — and truths — about vision therapy.

Most stroke survivors experience some degree of visual dysfunction following a stroke. Here are the 4 main types of visual complications that may result from a stroke and ways neuro-optometry can help.

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.

Using your computer for long periods of time can irritate and dry your eyes. The condition is so common that researchers have coined it computer vision syndrome. Learn more about the causes and treatments of this condition.

Multifocal contact lenses can help people with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) see clearly, whether focusing on close or distant objects.

Boys who exhibit inattention and hyperactivity are at risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and potentially, vision problems. Find out how TBIs and vision are related and what you can do to help your child following brain injury.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is more than just blurry vision. Here’s why parents of myopic children should consider myopia control, and what we can do to help.

Eyes that protrude can signal an underlying medical condition and can cause uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Your dry eye optometrist can help.

Ever wonder why rock superstar Bono wears sunglasses, even when indoors? It's not due to his "look", but rather is related to managing his glaucoma.

In certain cases, vision therapy may help manage the symptoms of myopia (nearsightedness). Read on to discover the hows and the whys.

A reduction in hormones during menopause, may lead many women to experience symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Read on to learn about the link between menopause and dry eye syndrome.

Eye herpes can cause several uncomfortable symptoms and recurring flare-ups. In extreme cases, it can lead to blindness. Discover how your eye doctor can help.

Myopia is an eye condition with increasing prevalence. While there is a lot of information out there on myopia, there are also many misconceptions. Read on to discover the REAL facts.

Vision problems are often missed during your child’s school vision screenings. Having them undergo a comprehensive eye exam can help detect any underlying vision problems. Help your child enjoy learning by giving them the tools they need to succeed with vision therapy.

Many factors contribute to vision loss, some of which may even be relevant to you. Read on to learn what puts a person at risk of developing sight-threatening eye diseases, and discover what an eye doctor can do to help.

Sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure and heart failure; it also causes eye-related issues. Find out how your eye condition may be linked to sleep apnea.

While occupational therapy and vision therapy have some similarities, they are actually very different. Read on to learn about their differences, and find out whether you should have your child see a vision therapist.

Glare is that annoying bright light that causes you to squint. It also can cause eye strain when using your computer. Luckily, anti-glare coated glasses offer many benefits, such as reduced glare, allowing you to see and feel better.

While rare, LASIK surgery can occasionally cause dry eye symptoms. It is essential to speak to your eye doctor to determine your risk and effectively address the condition.

Vision therapy is a doctor-supervised program. What’s perhaps most exciting is that it works for children too.

If you don't see well while driving at night, there's a chance you have night blindness. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is the inability to see well at night or in dim lighting. It's not considered an eye disease, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem.   Our eye doctors can...

Dry eye syndrome is more common in women than it is in men. Read on to learn why, and how we can help diagnose and treat the cause of your dry eye syndrome.

Is your child squinting more than usual? Is she or he having difficulty reading or seeing distant objects, even if they already wear glasses or have recently had an eye exam? Optometrists throughout the country are seeing more cases of myopia than ever before due to the effects of the...

If current trends continue, roughly half the world’s population will have myopia (nearsightedness) by 2050. But is the growing rate of myopia due to increased use of digital devices?

It may surprise you to learn that contact lenses can be safely worn by children aged 8 and over. Read on to learn more about contact lenses for the younger demographic.

Confidence is one of the keys to success. If your child is struggling in school or in sports, it could be due to a vision problem. Find out how vision therapy can improve your child’s visual skills and boost their self-confidence.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases causing damage to the optic nerve that can lead to vision loss or blindness. While there is a lot of information out there on glaucoma, there are also many misconceptions. Read on to learn to discover the REAL facts.

Though some people think vaping is a harmless alternative to traditional smoking, it can actually cause a whole host of health problems — including dry eye syndrome.

Ever wonder why your eyes tear up when you chop an onion? Here’s why these savory bulbs make you cry, and how you can reduce discomfort when cooking with them.

Here are 15 common things you might be doing that can increase your risk of suffering with vision loss or an eye disease. Read on to learn what they are, and what behaviors you may want to consider adjusting.

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.

The increased use of video conferencing due to COVID-19 has had a surprising impact: A boom in cosmetic procedures. Here’s why eye doctors are concerned about the eye health risks these procedures pose.

The older one gets, the more the eye changes and the higher the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions. Learn about why middle-aged people need reading glasses and when to visit the eye doctor.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy? Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is one of the most prevalent eye diseases affecting the working age population. It is thought to be caused by high blood sugar levels which, over time, damage the tiny blood vessels of the retina at the back of the eye, making them...

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.

Consuming certain vitamins and nutrients can support your eye health and potentially ward off serious eye diseases and conditions. Read on to find out more!

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.

Eye floaters are usually normal. But what causes them and when do they indicate a serious eye problem that needs emergency eye care?

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.

Eye floaters look like little specks or shapes that glide slowly across your visual field. They can resemble dark specks, outlined strings, or fragments of cobwebs – all of which are actually little pieces of debris or clumps of cells floating in your vitreous gel. When they cast shadows on...

Adjusting to new eyeglasses can take time, but persistent visual or eyestrain symptoms that accompany your new eyewear could warrant a call to your optometrist.

If you’ve been following the guideline to have regular eye exams, then you’re probably familiar with having your pupils dilated. Why does your eye doctor do this? By dilating your pupils, the eye doctor can get a better view of your inner eye structures – so the eye exam is...

The “perfect” eyeball would be a smooth sphere with optical lenses that function at their best. But in the real world, this rarely happens. Usually, eyes are not shaped perfectly and visual acuity is therefore compromised. When you have astigmatism, the eye is elliptical – similar to a football shape....

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 Do...

To get maximal eye protection from your sunglasses, consider replacing them every two years, according to a study conducted in Brazil. Over time, protective UV coatings become less effective.

Many people don't realize they have a vision problem. Perhaps they've gone years without glasses and haven't noticed the gradual change in their vision. Or they’ve noticed a change, but put off a visit to an eye doctor. Regardless of whether you’re experiencing problems, make an appointment with Dr. Marianne...

How to prevent conjunctivitis and protect your eyes When you have a virus, especially one that causes a hacking cough, runny nose, and other symptoms of a common cold or flu, it’s typical for your eyes to also get puffy and red. You may be suffering from viral conjunctivitis, also...

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...

An online eye exam is an automated and interactive vision test that claims to measure mainly visual acuity. It may seem like a convenient way to evaluate your vision or get an eyeglass or contact lens prescription, as these tests can be administered using your computer, tablet, or smartphone from...

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 locations, optometrists are beginning to...

During the COVID-19 outbreak, we have been going above and beyond to ensure that people are receiving emergency eye care. If you're having an eye emergency call your Niagara-on-the-Lake optometrist first.

Tele-optometry is a branch of telemedicine that can cover a wide range of problems and treatments related to vision and ocular health. Tele-medicine delivers medical care through digital medical equipment and telecommunications technology, such as online videos accessible through smart phones and tablets. This allows patients to easily receive screenings,...

You and your children are likely spending more time on mobile devices and computer screens than ever before. Too much time spent staring at screens can cause computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, in certain people. While not serious, this condition can be very uncomfortable, potentially causing: Headaches Eyestrain...

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...

Benefits of buying glasses from an optical store near you We get it, online shopping has become a staple in our lives. Even if you’re still lounging in your pj’s, you can browse items on the screen, make a selection and choose to pay now. All that’s left to do...

As coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads around the world, health professionals are demanding that people limit their personal risk of contracting the virus by thoroughly washing their hands, practicing social distancing, and not touching their nose, mouth, or eyes. In fact, it may surprise you to learn that the eyes play an...

Is your eye doctor's appointment coming up? Are you worried about going to the eye clinic during the new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic? Rest assured, keeping our patients and staff are safe is our top priority. We anticipate that this outbreak will continue for a while, and do not want our...

Get an eye exam to check the fit of your glasses Tips and guidelines are all over the internet about how to choose the perfect eyeglasses for your face. Which advice should you listen to? Do any of these helpful hints have any real value? Truthfully, there are many myths...

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...

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...

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...

When you pick up a book or your smartphone, do you need to stretch your arm and hold it further away from your eyes to see the words? When you go grocery shopping, do you need to take a step back from the shelves to read the ingredient lists? These...

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...

Before our eye doctor answers the question about whether or not contacts can help you achieve 20/20 vision, let’s discuss what those numbers mean. Everyone talks about 20/20 vision all the time, but what is it exactly? Our optometrist at your nearby eye care center in Niagara-on-the-Lake can answer any...

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...

Emergency Eye Care Services Near You in Niagara-on-the-Lake First of all, don’t panic! Styes may cause pain, yet they are generally harmless and very rarely have any effects on your vision or eyeball. In addition, they’re pretty common. Most people experience at least one or two styes at some point...

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,...

At this time of year when the sun sets earlier, 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...

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,...

Diabetes Awareness Month – Learn about Diabetic Eye Health in Niagara-on-the-Lake November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to learn more about diabetes of all types – type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Everyone knows the word “diabetes,” but can you define the condition? Diabetes is a disease characterized...

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...

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...

Expert Eye Care| Optometrist in Niagara-on-the-Lake | Dr. Hopkins & Associates Optometry 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...

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...

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...

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...

July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and no wonder! With the summer sun out in full force, it’s now more important than ever to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. During this month, people who have suffered from UV ray damage and their loved ones are encouraged to share...

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...

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...

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...

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. Marianne Hopkins  treats patients from all over...

Eye Clinic near you in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario Do you eat healthily and work out to keep your body in shape? Did you know that there are specific ways to keep your eyes strong too? You need your eyes for just about everything you do, and vision changes – such as...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

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...

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...

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma, a silent eye disease, is the most common form of irreversible blindness in the world. It is actually a group of diseases that causes progressive damage to the optic nerve.  Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can lead to...

Each year during the month of January we recognize World Braille Day which gives us the opportunity to take a moment and appreciate the incredible gift that Braille has given to those who are blind or suffer from vision loss.  What is Braille? Braille is a tactile representation of letters...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

On March 14-19, 2018 our Optical Boutique and Gallery Team will be headed to NYC to meet up with international suppliers to bring the newest innovative technology, materials and styles to the Guests of our Showroom! Come to check out what we find......

Come check out the newest additions to our optical, the ZENKA - FACE et CIE Collection, TRACTION FRAMES, and SPECSY before they disappear! The Zenka collection adds incredible, INTERCHANGEABLE frame fronts to adjust the colour, shape, and/or size of your new frames to embellish and accessorize all of your wardrobe looks!!  The collection is...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

It's National Cataract Awareness Month 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...

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 honor of Sjogren’s Awareness month, eye care providers are helping to spread the word to increase awareness about this hard-to-diagnose disease. 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 serious...

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...

Workplace Eye Safety Month 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...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

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.

Make your resolution for healthy vision this year with increased awareness of the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

This is the one way you can be sure that you or your child’s eyes are truly safe during Nerf shooting:

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)...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

UV Awareness Month: This article might scare you, and we hope it does - just enough to motivate you to wear proper eye protection against the sun. Most people are aware of the dangers ultraviolet (UV)  light from the sun pose to your skin, while the long-term effects of sun...

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...

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...

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...

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....

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 about the disease, the risk factors and prevention are critical, even for younger...

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...

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.

Have you ever thought about how vision works? It's an incredible system and process!

Prevention and treatment for eye complications associated with Diabetes

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...

Home Eye Injury Awareness and Prevention

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...

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...

Picking out new eyeglasses can be a daunting task, whether you're getting your very first pair or you've worn them nearly all your life. The sheer volume of eyeglass choices can be torture to work your way through if you don't have any idea what you're looking for. Not only...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Dr. Kimberlee Robertson-Woods was recently featured in the Niagara Advance community newspaper's Business Profile section....