By Dr. Stephen Taylor Question: I’ve heard that sunglasses are important year-round but the UV index is so low right now. Is it really that big of a deal to wear sun protection when outside in winter, regardless of weather? Answer: While winter sun feels gentler and sunglasses may not be top-of-mind in February, your […]
Ask the Doctor: Driving in the Dark
By Dr. Stephen Taylor Question: Even though my distance prescription hasn’t changed much in recent years, I feel like I used to see better at night. Other people seem confident driving in the dark or walking at dusk, and I don’t. Can they see better than I do? Why, and what can I do? Answer: […]
Ask the Doctor: Eye Fatigue from Glasses
By Dr. Stephen Taylor Question: I wear glasses at the office for working on the computer, but my eyes still feel so tired and sore by the end of the day. Why, and what can I do about it? Answer: When you spend long hours at a computer, your eyes are working much harder than […]
Ask the Doctor: Is Holding Devices Too Close Harmful for Kids’ Eyes?
By Dr. Stephen Taylor & Dr. Stasiuk When my child uses a handheld device, he holds it really close to his face. I feel like this can’t be good for his eyes. Is that true, or just a myth? Answer: It’s understandable to be concerned about your child’s eye health, especially with the increasing use […]
Ask the Doctor: Why Does My Optometrist Need to Know My Medications?
By Dr. Stephen Taylor Question: I recently moved to town and have scheduled an eye exam with a new optometrist. While I was booking the appointment the receptionist asked me to bring a list of any medications I take. Why would an eye doctor need this information? Answer: My aim as an optometrist is to […]
Ask the Doctor: Contact Lens Exams
My contact lens order hasn’t changed in over eight years, and I feel like I am seeing clearly, so why do I need to have an eye exam before I can order more contact lenses? Answer: I get where you are coming from! If your vision feels fine and your prescription hasn’t budged in nearly […]
Ask the Doctor: Increased Risk of Disease for Blue Eyes
I have blue eyes and find them to be very light-sensitive. Are blue eyes at greater risk than brown eyes for any diseases because they have less natural protection from the sun? Interesting question! The “blue” colour stems from having less melanin in the top layer of the iris. Although this allows light to reflect […]
Ask the Doctor: Eyeglass fitting challenges with hearing aids
I am due for some new glasses, but I recently also got hearing aids. What features should I be looking for when I shop to avoid having problems with these two medical appliances competing for space on my head? Answer: Accommodating both glasses and hearing aids is definitely a common fitting challenge, and there are […]
Ask the Doctor: Lens materials for sunglasses
With summer coming I have started looking for new sunglasses and I am unsure about what lens material is best for me. Why would I choose plastic over glass, for example? So, you’re planning to invest in new sunglasses! Protecting your eyes from ultraviolet radiation with good quality sunwear is a fantastic idea. Let’s talk […]
Ask the Doctor: First Eye Exam
Question: I have never had an eye exam before. What sort of tests can I expect at my first appointment? Answer: It’s completely understandable to have questions before your eye examination, especially if you’ve never had one before. Let me walk you through what a typical comprehensive eye exam might look like. We’ll start with […]
