Eye Care Tip #26 | Nearsighted Parents Are More Likely To Have Nearsighted Children

Did you know that nearsightedness, or myopia, can be hereditary? Recent studies have found that if one or both parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia.

While genetics play a role in myopia, environmental factors can also contribute to its development. For example, spending too much time indoors and engaging in activities that require close-up vision, such as reading and using electronic devices, can increase the risk of developing myopia.

At Stonewire Optometry, we recommend that parents with myopia bring their children in for regular eye exams starting by age 1. Early detection and management of myopia can help slow the progression and ensure the best possible vision health for your child.

Our team of experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing you and your family with the highest quality eye care. We offer a variety of treatments and interventions to manage myopia and protect your child's vision. Book an appointment with us today, and let us help you and your family achieve the best possible vision health.

This Eye Care Tip of the Week is brought to you by the eye doctors and staff at Edmonton’s Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall.

#18 | Wash...Wash...Wash Your Hands

Eye Care Tip of the Week | #18

Wash...Wash...Wash Your Hands 

When in doubt, wash your hands. 

Many eye infections can be prevented by simply washing your hands before rubbing your eyes or inserting and removing your contact lenses. 

Regularly washing your hands helps to remove dirt, dead skin cells and to reduce the spread of germs to yourself and others.  

Your hands come into contact with bacteria and virus' all day long, and these transient strains need to be removed. Failure to wash your hands before inserting and removing your contact lenses or rubbing your eyes results in the transfer of bacteria to the contact lens and may lead to an eye infection. 

To get your hands extra clean, make sure that you wash them with soap and water (warm or cold - they're both equal) for at least 20-30 seconds. Always dry your hands afterwards with a clean towel. Wiping your hands on your shirt and pants does not count. 

10 Common Activites Where You Should Be Washing Your Hands

1. Before and after eating, or when preparing food 

2. Before and after going to the washroom

3. After blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing

4. After taking out the garbage

5. Before inserting or removing your contact lenses

6. Before adding eye drops

7. Every day when you get home from school or work. 

8. After playing with pets and animals

9. While caring for someone who is sick or after visiting a hospital

10. Before holding a baby or after changing their diapers. 

When in doubt...rewash your hands. 

This Eye Care Tip of the Week is brought to you by Dr. Puneet Randhawa

Eye Care Tip #15: Newborn Eye Exams

Many parents ask us when they should bring their newborns in for their first eye exam. 

We want to see your newborn for their first eye exam sometime between 6-months & 1-year of age. 

In general, we would like to see all newborns for their first eye exam sometime between 6-months and one-year of age. Having said that, if you have any concerns never hesitate to bring your newborn in sooner. 

Remember, all children in Alberta are covered under Alberta Health Care for an eye exam once a year, and for any eye health concerns, so please don't let cost be a barrier.

To Learn more about children's eye exams, check out our Eye Exams for Children web page. 

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This Tip of the Week is brought to you by optometrist Dr. Ross McKenzie