We truly believe in routine eye examinations so that you can see as clearly as possible. Once you have to get glasses or contacts, it is even more important to watch the health of your eyes. You also need routine checks to ensure your prescription has not changed.
To ensure good eye health and vision, we are very proud to offer the following services:
- Cataracts
- Comprehensive Eye Exams
- Computer Vision
- Diabetic Eye Care
- Digital Retina Imaging
- Dry Eye Treatment
- Emergency Care
- Glaucoma
- Hyperopia
- Keratoconus
- LASIK Co-Management
- Macular Degeneration
- Myopia Control
- Pediatric Eye Exams
- Sports Vision
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
- Visual Field Testing
- Laser Refractive Surgery Co-Management
- Retinal Photography
- Digital Retinal Camera
- Ocular Disease Management
- Specialty Contact Lenses (RGP and Sclerals)
- OPtos Machine (Markham Location)
Cataracts
Cataracts cause a clouding of the lens in the eye, making your vision appear to be foggy. Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and are the leading cause of blindness in the world.
Your eyes are meant to naturally adjust to normal light changes, adjust focus, and allow us to see both near and far. Your lens is primarily made up of water and proteins. The proper arrangement of these proteins is what contributes to normal vision. Some of these proteins clump together forming a clouding of the lens.
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Comprehensive Eye Exams
Comprehensive Eye Exams are an important foundation for your eye and vision care. It is important to take care of your eyes for your long-term health and as your Optometrists, we will provide you with detailed eye exams while explaining to you the exact state of your eye health. Ocular diseases can be detected early thereby avoiding any decline in your health or long-term vision loss.
At the Eye Health Clinic we recommend regular eye exams on a yearly basis. This is not just to check your vision but also to ensure your eyes are healthy. Your doctor will work closely with you to make sure your eyes are looked after in every way.
Accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases can be achieved which will help with maintaining your vision and overall eye health. Our investment into state of the art technology and equipment illustrates our commitment to our patients for diagnosis and treatment.
While most people understand the need for regular and annual eye examinations, some people are under the impression that an Optometrist should only be seen when you need to get or change your eye glass prescription. Nothing could be further from the truth.
It is important to know that Optometrists serve a vital function with the diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases. Prescriptions for glasses and/or contact lenses is a separate need altogether. Those that take care of their eyes have the benefit of knowing the state of their eye health and having the luxury to act well in advance in case of any diseases.
Patients with perfect or near-perfect vision (20/20) at the present time could still not be aware of the early onset stages of the following diseases.
Children Eye Exams
Starting from the age of 6 months, we recommend eye exams for children. During the early and formative years of a child’s development, they learn how to focus on objects, how to coordinate both eyes together, and how to coordinate the eyes to work with other parts of the body. It is vital that the eyes are monitored routinely for long-term health.
Regular children’s eye exams will allow you to ensure your child’s vision is developing well. They are an important tool in the early detection, prevention and treatment of eye conditions. For the child’s growth and development, early detection is important.
For parents, it is worth noting that often no signs of a child’s vision problems can be seen. Yet, 80% of learning is done through vision and a child’s progress is directly tied to this. Research shows us that 20% of children will have some kind of ocular problem that will go undetected by their parents. For instance, if a child has one eye that sees well while the other eye is weak, they will become dependent on the stronger eye. Leaving this ignored may result in poor vision.
As your Optometrists, we can use different techniques to assess vision. A child’s eye exam includes tests that assess colour vision, depth perception, eye muscle balance, focusing abilities, and overall eye health.
Children under the age of 19 are covered by OHIP and eligible to receive one comprehensive eye exam per year.
Comprehensive eye exams for adults include an assessment of your vision and ocular health. The doctor will recommend the most appropriate eye wear for your needs and counsel you on how to best care for your vision and eye health.
Disease related changes that can affect your eyes can include:
• Glaucoma
• Macular Degeneration
• Keratoconus
• Cataracts
• Diabetes
Important: if you leave these diseases undiagnosed or untreated, it can lead to complications that may result in deteriorating vision or blindness.
For those aged 65 and over, we highly recommend that eye exams are conducted regularly. As eye diseases are more prevalent in this age group, their diagnosis and treatment becomes even more important. The majority of these diseases are completely asymptomatic in their early stages which is why we focus on early detection with routine eye exams.
Some of these diseases can include:
• Glaucoma
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Cataracts
Senior citizens who are 65 and above are covered by OHIP and eligible to receive one comprehensive eye exam per year.
Important: if you leave these diseases undiagnosed or untreated, it can lead to complications that may result in deteriorating vision or blindness.
Computer Vision
Computer Vision is a relatively new term within the optometry field and refers to eye problems associated with the prolonged use of computers and electronics that utilize a digital screen. Although it can be temporary, there are times when computer vision can strain the eyes to a degree that permanently affects your vision as well. An existing eye condition can worsen as the eyes try to focus and adjust to a computer screen, and precautions should be taken if you spend long hours in front of a computer screen.
If you have been experiencing blurry vision, dry eyes, eye strain, headaches, neck or back pain, try adjusting the lighting, posture, and the distance in front of your computer screen. If computer vision symptoms persist, call us to request an appointment, we will perform a full evaluation.
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Diabetic Eye Care
Diabetes can affect more than just your blood sugar. It can also do some damage to your eyes if you are not careful.
Diabetic eye disease can cause vision loss if you are not careful. It can cause you to have trouble with everyday tasks even if you have regular glasses or contacts. It can even cause blindness.
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Digital Retina Imaging
Using a digital camera system, our optometrists at Eye Health Clinic can clearly see and examine your retina, located at the back of your eye. This examination is critical to monitoring the health of your eye as well as to the early detection of many medical problems. The pictures generated through retinal imaging help us identify problems with your vision and can also help diagnose other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, or even brain tumors.
Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye syndrome is a condition where the tear film of the eye is diminished, thereby causing the cornea to be exposed to the environment due to the lack of lubrication and protection. The implications of this can range from severe inflammation of the eye or patients being completely unaware of symptoms.
Sometimes patients are not aware of dry eye syndrome and don’t know that dryness is an issue until we bring it to their attention. Once a course of treatment is decided on, patients often begin to realize the difference in their eyes.
Some of the symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
• Burning
• Itching
• Tearing
• Irritation
• Redness
• Stinging
• Pain
• Foreign Body Sensation
• Blurry Vision
Important: if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please come and see us for a thorough evaluation. This will help us determine the severity of the situation.
There are many causes for dry eye syndrome. Whatever the cause, the result will be an increase in tear evaporation or a decrease in tear production. These are just some of the reasons for dryness.
Decrease in Tear Production
• Hormonal changes
• Aging
• Various medications
• Menopause
• Various systemic conditions
Increase in Tear Evaporation
• Windy conditions
• Contact lens wear
• Decreased blinking (for instance, with excessive computer use and reading)
• Heat or air conditioning
We will determine if you have dry eyes during your comprehensive exam. If discovered, we will begin treatment and may schedule another appointment for greater evaluation.
During the follow up assessments, we will determine the severity of dryness, and see how the treatment is working to solve the problem. We discuss all options in detail with you with reference to symptoms and any concerns you may have.
There are very practical options available when treating a patient’s dry eyes. We always aim to treat the symptoms with methods that are the least invasive. As we continue to monitor the dry eyes, we will determine the effectiveness of all treatment options and discuss them with you in detail. Some of these treatment options may include:
• Dietary supplements
• Artificial tears
• Humidifier
• Punctal plugs
• Eyelid scrubs
• Prescription eye drops and/or ointments
• Warm eyelid compresses
• Surgical punctual occlusion
Irrespective of any treatment plan we recommend for you, it is important to note that dry eyes syndrome may be chronic. What does this mean for you? It means you must take the necessary daily steps to improve the condition in your eyes. As we see improvements over time, we will alter the treatment so as to better improve the health of your eyes.
Emergency Care
For patients that have ocular emergencies that need to be assessed immediately, we welcome you to visit us. Examples of emergencies include foreign bodies in the eye, red eyes, sudden vision blur or loss, eye pain, peripheral vision loss, and symptoms of flashes and floaters.
Many eye emergencies need to be diagnosed and treated quickly for a better prognosis. As your Optometrists, we can evaluate your eyes and refer you to Ophthalmologists when required. Please call us during our office hours and we will see you as soon as possible.
Important: if symptoms occur while our clinic is closed, please go to your nearest hospital.
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Glaucoma
Glaucoma occurs from damage to the eye’s optic nerve and can often lead to loss of vision and blindness. To detect glaucoma, our highly trained doctors will perform a proper screening to determine severity, examine the damage, and help you manage your glaucoma.
Early detection of glaucoma is crucial in preventing vision loss and blindness; the earlier the better. However, there is no official cure for glaucoma. There are several treatment methods that manage, slow down, or halt the process. Treatment for glaucoma will vary depending on the stage and severity for each individual patient.
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Hyperopia
Farsightedness, known as hyperopia, makes it difficult to see objects close by. If you are experiencing farsightedness, corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses will be prescribed. After a thorough examination, we will determine the prescription that’s best for you.
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Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory disorder that affects the cornea. The cornea becomes thinned and steepened, resulting in distorted vision, sensitivity to light, and decreased vision. Symptoms typically manifest in a person’s younger years, usually the late teens or 20’s.
Keratoconus can affect a person’s ability to read or drive, which can be a major obstacle for people. Luckily, this is a condition that can be diagnosed through a routine eye exam, which underscores the importance of scheduling regular eye exams for you and your children.
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LASIK Co-Management
LASIK stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis and is a popular surgery to correct vision problems. LASIK can help people who are nearsighted or farsighted, as well those who have astigmatism.
LASIK works by reshaping the cornea with a laser, which allows light to be correctly focused onto the retina. A laser is used to create a small flap in the cornea, which is peeled back so another laser can reshape the cornea. The flap is then placed back and the surgery is complete.
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Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a disease of the Macula which causes loss of central vision. Prevention and treatment can include vitamins and injection therapy. As your Optometrists, we would monitor the condition yearly and refer you to a specialized Ophthalmologist if the need for injection therapy is required.
It is important to note that all family members of patients with macular degeneration should have an eye exam yearly given the hereditary nature of the disease.
Glaucoma is an eye disease (which can be genetic) in which your optic nerve is damaged. This damage causes a loss in your peripheral vision and can lead to blindness if not controlled properly. Symptoms are not generally felt by most people in the early stages of the disease, which underscores the need for regular eye exams. If you or loved ones in your family have Glaucoma, you should ensure that everyone is checked yearly for early detection and treatment options.
Risk factors for Glaucoma are pressure in the eyes (intraocular pressure), any changes to the optic nerve, a decrease in corneal thickness, and blood pressure.
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Myopia Control
Nearsightedness, known as myopia, makes it difficult to see objects from afar. If you are experiencing nearsightedness, corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses will be prescribed. After a thorough examination, we will determine the prescription that’s best for you.
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Pediatric Eye Exams
Here at Eye Health Clinic, we are proud to offer pediatric eye examinations. Children should have their first eye exam around the age of six months. If the first exam finds that their eyes are healthy, they won’t need another appointment until they are between the age of two and three.
Although many schools offer annual eye exams, they are not complete visual exams and the results can be inaccurate. For this reason, you should schedule yearly or bi-yearly examinations to ensure that your child’s eyes are healthy and that he or she can see clearly.
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Sports Vision
Sports Vision training involves high-level eye tracking, depth perception, and hand-eye coordination. Many athletes will practice these exercises to keep their eye health in peak condition.
There are various exercises and specific exams used for Sports Vision testing. Office and field tests can both help determine how your eyes will function beyond the realm of normal activity. We can customize a program to strengthen your vision based on your level of activity.
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Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
At Eye Health Clinic, we are proud to offer Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). This advanced, noninvasive technology is a form of retinal imaging that allows us to capture high resolution cross-sectional images.
By examining the layers in the retina and measuring their thickness, we can better monitor the onset and progression of various retinal conditions and diseases.
This method of testing is the standard when it comes to the assessment and treatment of these conditions, and can be completed without any patient discomfort or exposure to radiation as no x-rays are used.
- To monitor the progression of your retinal condition
- To confirm or rule out swelling of the retina
- To compare current and previous scans to monitor the success of a medication or treatment
Visual Field Testing
The Visual Field Test is used to both test and analyze your central and peripheral vision. The visual field machine is an extremely beneficial tool for us in our clinic. Testing is done onsite by our trained staff and then reviewed by one of our Optometrists as they share the results with the patient.
If you require this test, we will let you know. The Visual Field test may be required to obtain a more complete ocular health record and will be performed in addition to a comprehensive eye examination.
It is important to let us know of any prescription medication you are taking as it may affect your vision and ocular health. Some medications can affect vision but are necessary to control and manage the medical condition you may have.
Visual fields are used to monitor any subtle changes in the eyes even before you notice any change in your sight. By working with your general physician and/or specialists, we will help aid in determining if dosage of medication needs to be altered.
Damage that has been caused by glaucoma is irreversible. For this reason it is vital that the disease is monitored regularly. One of the purposes of the visual field test is to monitor for glaucomatous change which occurs with the disease. This allows us to manage the condition better and more proactively.
Laser Refractive Surgery Co-Management
For certain patients who want to have good vision without glasses or contact lenses, Laser Vision Correction (Refractive Surgery) may be a good option. If it is determined that this is a good option for you, we will work with local refractive surgeons to co-manage your patient file. As your Optometrists, we will do a pre-operative assessment to determine whether you are a good candidate for surgery and discuss your options. After your surgery, you will be examined regularly for one year to ensure your vision and eye health are on target and your eye is healing well.
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Retinal Photography
Using a digital camera system, our optometrists at Eye Health Clinic can clearly see and examine your retina, located at the back of your eye. This examination is critical to monitoring the health of your eye as well as to the early detection of many medical problems. The pictures generated through retinal imaging help us identify problems with your vision and can also help diagnose other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, or even brain tumors.
Digital retinal imaging is important because, often, vision or eye problems can develop with no clear symptoms. Subtle changes in your vision can be hard to detect and diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or retinal tears may only be visible through these images. Even in healthy eyes, retinal imaging is important as it allows us to track changes in your eyes over time so we can better predict and prepare for common issues that affect eyes as they age.
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