Blog - Beamsville Optometrist | Dr. Wylie Tan & Dr. Timothy Hennig

Introduction

Our eyes are our windows to the world, and maintaining their health is crucial for overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the top ten ways to take care of your eyes and keep your vision in optimal condition. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who loves spending time outdoors, these tips are tailored to help you maintain healthy eyes. Remember, this is not medical advice; always consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

1. Consume Eye-Healthy Nutrients

Vitamins A, C, and E, along with the mineral zinc, are vital antioxidants that help prevent macular degeneration—a condition where the macula, the part of the eye that controls central vision, deteriorates. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseed and salmon, also contribute to better eye health.

2. Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing conditions like diabetes, which can lead to diabetic retinopathy—a serious eye disease. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine to support overall health and protect your vision.

3. Wear Quality Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing quality sunglasses. UV exposure can increase the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Ensure your sunglasses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and wear them even on cloudy days.

4. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

To prevent digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps reduce eye fatigue and dryness, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer or screen.

5. Practice Good Contact Lens Hygiene

If you wear contact lenses, always wash your hands before handling them. Avoid sleeping in your contacts unless prescribed by your doctor. Clean and store your lenses properly to prevent eye infections.

6. Avoid Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of developing age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your eye health and overall well-being.

7. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting vision problems and eye diseases early. Even if you don’t wear glasses or contacts, routine check-ups can help ensure your eyes stay healthy.

8. Replace Old Makeup

Using old or expired makeup, especially eye makeup, can lead to infections. Replace your makeup every few months and avoid sharing it with others to maintain good eye hygiene.

9. Wear Safety Eyewear

When engaging in activities that pose a risk to your eyes, such as woodworking, playing high-impact sports, or using hazardous chemicals, always wear safety glasses. Protecting your eyes from injuries is crucial for long-term eye health.

10. Get Regular Eye Screenings

Understanding your family history and getting regular screenings can help identify potential hereditary eye issues. Discuss any concerns with your eye doctor to stay proactive about your eye health.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Outdoors

Spending time outdoors is beneficial for your eyes. Natural light helps maintain proper eye function, and focusing on distant objects can relax eye muscles strained by prolonged screen time. However, always wear sunglasses to protect against UV rays.

Conclusion

Taking care of your eyes involves a combination of good nutrition, regular exercise, protective measures, and routine check-ups. By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can maintain healthy vision and reduce the risk of eye-related problems. Remember, this blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalized eye care, consult your eye doctor.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and medical advice.

In today’s digital world, many of us spend hours each day staring at computers, smartphones, and tablets. While these devices have become essential tools for work and communication, they can also take a toll on our eye health. Here are some practical tips to help minimize the impact of extended screen time on your vision, based on both professional recommendations and feedback from individuals who have found effective solutions.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

One of the simplest yet most effective techniques is the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain by allowing your eyes to relax and refocus.

Optimize Your Display Settings

Many people find relief by adjusting their device settings:

Increase Text Size and Contrast: Make reading easier by adjusting the text size and contrast on your devices.
Use Dark Mode or Night Mode: Reduce glare, especially in low-light conditions, by switching to dark mode or night mode.
Adjust Screen Brightness: Ensure your screen brightness matches your surroundings to reduce strain.

Consider Computer Glasses

Specialized computer glasses can make a significant difference. Options include:

Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Reduce potential eye strain from digital devices.
Progressive or Occupational Lenses: Designed specifically for computer use, these can help maintain comfortable vision.

Create an Eye-Friendly Environment

Your workspace can impact your eye comfort:

Ensure Proper Lighting: Reduce glare and contrast issues by maintaining adequate lighting.
Position Your Screen Correctly: Place your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level.
Use a Humidifier: Prevent dry eyes, especially in air-conditioned spaces, by maintaining moisture in the air.

Practice Good “Eye Hygiene”

Maintaining healthy habits can significantly reduce eye strain:

Blink Frequently: Keep your eyes lubricated by blinking regularly.
Use Artificial Tears: If you experience dry eyes, artificial tears can provide relief.
Switch to Glasses: Consider wearing glasses instead of contact lenses during extended screen time.

Take Regular Breaks

Incorporate short breaks into your routine to give your eyes a rest:

Stand Up and Stretch: Every hour, take a moment to stretch and move around.
Step Outside: If possible, go outside for fresh air and to focus on distant objects.

Maintain Overall Eye Health

General health practices can also support eye health:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Include eye-healthy nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and C.
Consider Supplements: Fish oil supplements may help, but consult your doctor first.

Use Helpful Software

Many people benefit from apps and programs that assist with eye strain management:

Break Reminder Apps: Use apps that remind you to take breaks, such as those that implement the 20-20-20 rule.
Color Temperature Adjustments: Software like F.lux or built-in features like Night Shift can automatically adjust screen color temperature.

Don’t Neglect Regular Eye Exams

Annual comprehensive eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health. They allow professionals to:

Detect Early Signs of Issues: Catch vision changes or eye health problems early.
Update Your Prescription: Ensure your glasses or contact lenses are up to date.
Discuss Personalized Strategies: Get tailored advice for managing digital eye strain.

Disclaimer

The tips provided in this blog are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Please consult with an eye care professional for personalized recommendations and treatment.

By implementing these strategies and staying proactive about your eye health, you can help minimize the impact of digital devices on your vision and enjoy comfortable, clear sight in our screen-centric world.

Are you planning to have a Lasik surgery done? Or PRK eye surgery? You may get $600 off your Laser Vision Correction procedure with TLC’s Summer Promotion! The promo is exclusively for Lasik and PRK surgeries only. Make sure to have your surgery done by October 1^st, 2021.

Consult your optometrist today! Book an appointment with Dr. Wylie Tan at (905) 563-5333 or email us at info@youreyesareworthit.ca.

If you are looking into wearing contact lenses or need to have your prescription updated, you need to undergo a contact lens exam. By doing this exam, your optometrist will be able to determine which type of contact lenses would be best for your lifestyle and needs. Contact lens measurements are also done during this exam. It is important for you to have lenses that fit you properly.

Contact Lens Exam

A contact lens exam is a different eye exam taken by individuals who are seeking to get contact lenses. This includes tests that would be able to determine if you are fit to wear contact lenses and measurements of your eye surface to see contact lens options for your prescription.

It is important to undergo a contact lens exam as this will accurately tell you what type of contact lenses are best for you. Contact lenses will sit directly on your cornea. If your contact lenses don’t fit properly, you may put yourself at risk for infection.

If you have recently completed a comprehensive eye exam, you might be wondering if that is enough for your doctor to determine the right contact lenses for you. Unfortunately, you need to have a separate contact lens exam for that.
Comprehensive eye examinations may be able to test your visual acuity and need for corrective eyeglasses, overall ocular health, and any symptoms of eye diseases, but these are not enough to determine your contact lens prescription.

Let us walk you through the tests done in a contact lens exam:

Cornea size

This will help your doctor assess the size and curvature of your cornea. This will determine the appropriate size and base curve for your contact lenses as well as if you have astigmatism or irregular corneal shape. If so, a special lens called a toric lens may be recommended.

Pupil size

This test is done to determine the correct contact lens size by measuring the size of your pupil or iris. The measurement is done by holding a ruler or card with different pupil sizes close to your eyes to find the closest match.

Tear film evaluation

This test determines if you have the ability to wear contact lenses. A tear film evaluation may also be done to ensure that you have enough tears to wear contacts comfortably. If you have dry eyes you may not be able to wear contact lenses as your eyes will be irritated and itchy making it difficult to wear contact lenses. Dry eyes can be a factor for you not to wear contact lenses, as your eyes will be irritated and itchy which makes it difficult for you to wear contacts. During this test, Dr. Tan will ask you to close your eyes while a special strip of paper is placed under your lower eyelid. The doctor will assess the amount of tears you are able to produce while doing that. Your doctor will assess you on how much tears you were able to produce for the period of time.

You may also be asked about your lifestyle and preferences for your contact lenses. this can go from eye color, lenses, disposable contact lenses, and more.

It is recommended to have the same optometrist to do your comprehensive eye examinations and contact lenses exam. Having the same optometrist for both exams ensures accuracy as they already have your history and eye exams on file. This would be more cost-efficient for you as well as tests that are required by your optometrist for your lenses might have already been done by your optometrist who executed your comprehensive eye exam.

Contact Lens Fitting

After the series of tests, your doctor will let you put on trial lenses to assess comfortability and fit. You will be required to wear these for a few minutes to let the tearing of your eye stop and the lenses stabilize in your eyes. You may be asked to try several lenses to find the most appropriate lens for you. If the lenses have been determined to be a good fit, a final order for the appropriate lens will be made.

Follow-up

Your doctor may ask you to come back for a follow-up appointment to check if your contact lenses are fitting properly and are not causing any discomfort or damage to your eye surface. An eye drops with fluorescein dye may be used to evaluate if there is any damage caused by the lenses.

If you are experiencing dryness or discomfort, visit your eye doctor as soon as possible.

Book an appointment with Dr. Wylie Tan at (905) 563-5333 or email at info@youreyesareworthit.ca to get a contact lens exam and fitting.

Contact lenses are thin curved lenses placed directly on the surface of your eye and help correct refractive errors. This is an alternative for wearing eyeglasses and can also be worn for cosmetic purposes. Contact lenses are medical devices regulated by the FDA and with this, all lenses require a prescription.

Contact lens exams are required for a doctor to assess the correct size and type of lens that best fits you.

Refractive errors that can be improved through contacts are:

Astigmatism
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Presbyopia

What are the types of Contact Lenses?

The appropriate type of lens is determined by the doctor after a series of tests.

Soft Contact Lens

These are the most common contact lenses worn by many people. These are comfortable soft lenses that are easy to adapt to. Below are different types of soft contact lenses:

Daily-wear lenses

These are lenses that are worn during the day and removed and cleaned at night. They are usually good to be used for one week and replaced, others can be good for use up to two weeks or even a month before they need to be replaced.

Extended-wear lenses

These are lenses that can be worn during the day and night or overnight. They can be worn up to 30 consecutive days. However, this type of lens can carry a higher risk of eye infection or damage due to the lenses not being cleaned routinely. Doctors still recommend removing them every day to be cleaned.

Hard Contact Lenses

Today, the hard contact lenses are rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contacts. These are made from a sturdy plastic material, most often silicone. RGP are more durable as compared to soft contact lenses. They hold a firm shape and allow oxygen to flow through the lens which makes it breathable.

This type of contact lens provides clear vision for people with vision problems. RGP are helpful for people with astigmatism and keratoconus.

Book an appointment with Dr. Wylie Tan at (905) 563-5333 or email at info@youreyesareworthit.ca and get the right contact lenses for you.

Eye See Eye Learn Program – Complimentary Corrective Eyeglasses for Junior Kindergarten Students

The Eye See… Eye Learn® (ESEL) program is designed to detect, diagnose and treat children with vision problems when they begin junior kindergarten, so that every child can see and learn to the best of his/her ability. This program encourages junior kindergarten students to get a comprehensive OHIP-covered eye exam, and receive a complimentary pair of corrective eyeglasses, if a prescription is required.

The program is coordinated by the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) and made possible by participating Optometrists and sponsored by our industry partners, Plastic Plus and Modern Optical, to provide a free pair of prescription eyeglasses (value approx. $250) if glasses are prescribed.

Many parents think their children will tell them if they are not seeing well; however, many children are unaware of their own vision problems as they have nothing to compare to and may think that what they see is normal, even if this is a blurred image. The Eye See…Eye Learn® program raises parent awareness about the importance of identifying and treating vision problems early.

According to studies, 80% of a child’s learning is acquired through visual input and vision is considered the most important sense for learning. Having children undergo full eye examinations is an effective way to detect and treat vision problems that might hinder children from learning. The Eye See… Eye Learn® program aims to eliminate the barriers surrounding a child’s eye care by providing free eyeglasses, as uncorrected eye problems may negatively impact the child’s development, education, and quality of life.

The ESEL program begins July 1st and goes through to June 30 of the school year. If your child is entering or currently in junior kindergarten, then your child should be eligible. Children not eligible for the ESEL program are still encouraged to get their eyes checked. Annual eye examinations are covered by OHIP for children up to and including 19 years of age in Ontario.

Dr. Wylie Tan is happy to be a participating Optometrist in the ESEL program. To book an appointment, please contact us by phone at (905) 563-5333 or email at info@youreyesareworthit.ca because your child’s eyes are worth it!

80% of Learning is Visual | Eye See…Eye Learn Animated Infographic from OAO on Vimeo.

Get a Laser Vision Correction Referral

For those wanting to have their vision issues corrected with laser vision correction, we refer patients to Dr. Machat for corrective eye surgery. Dr. Wylie Tan feels Dr. Machat is experienced, extensively trained, and always working towards achieving the best possible results for our eye care patients. Dr. Timothy Hennig trusts Dr. Jeff Machat with your eyes and his own; in 1998, Dr. Machat performed a Lasik procedure on Dr. Hennig. Dr. Machat has authored two textbooks on laser vision correction and has performed over 55,000 procedures. His enthusiasm in helping patients see clearly, without spectacles or contact lenses, still exists with each procedure he performs.

Dr. Machat uses Custom Lasik, a technique that utilizes wavefront technology to create a high-resolution, 3D graph of the eye surface. This allows for a more precise correction, especially for patients with uniquely shaped corneas. Custom Lasik and bladeless Lasik procedures are increasingly popular, as they can help patients find benefits such as:

20/20 Vision
Better Night Vision
Less Incidence of “Halos”
Reduced Glare

What is “Bladeless” Lasik Vision Correction?

In bladeless procedures, the surgeon uses a computer-guided laser to form the corneal flap. Along with improved vision, this less invasive procedure comes with many benefits, such as reduced dry eye symptoms, faster recovery, and availability to more patients.

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Put Your World in a Beautiful Frame

At the optometry clinic of Dr. Timothy Hennig in Beamsville, we offer a full selection of designer frames and screen-friendly, anti-glare eyewear. One thing you may notice about our clinic is the care that comes along with each service. The focus of our staff has always been in helping patients get the most out of their gift of vision. We won’t try to sell you on the latest trend or most expensive frame, but we will discuss your best eyewear options. Dr. Hennig will recommend the type of lens, bifocal, or frame design to help you in this very visual world in which we live.

Because we truly care about your ocular health and visual comfort, if you ever experience an issue with your eyeglasses, we will help you find a solution that works best for you. Our staff always works to exceed your expectations.

It doesn’t end when you pick up your new glasses; we are always there for adjustments and repairs. Our two-year warranty for frames and lenses — at no extra charge — is our way of keeping you protected.

Let us help you find the eyeglasses that suit you best — call or visit Dr. Timothy Hennig in Beamsville today!

We carry a large variety of top designer frames for both eyeglasses and sunglasses,

Vera Wang

Revo

Katespade

Silhouette

RayBan

JohnLennon

Guess

Esprit

Elle

Charmant

BCBG

At the optometry clinic of Dr. Timothy Hennig and Dr. Wylie Tan in Beamsville, we can help you find a pair of contact lenses that will correct your vision irregularities and provide you with the most comfort. To discuss contact lenses for yourself or your child, please call Dr. Hennig and Dr. Tan to schedule an appointment.

High Oxygen Contact Lenses

As contact lenses have evolved quite a bit over the past several years, you may be interested in high oxygen contact lenses. Many patients find these contacts to be less irritating and more comfortable. These contact lenses are also healthier for your eyes, as they allow more oxygen to reach the cornea.

Some of the newest contact lenses have UV protection and a “wetting agent” to prevent dryness. Now available is the “ultimate” in contact lenses – daily disposable high oxygen lenses.

Kids & Contacts

By the age of 9 or 10, most children can safely insert and wear contact lenses. One of the prime motivating factors for children to choose contacts over eyeglasses is the convenience they provide during play or sports activities. Although complications are rare, it is advised that you monitor any signs of an allergic reaction, irritation, or improper use. For young children, we most commonly prescribe daily disposable lenses as they provide a new, sterile lens each day, which require no cleaning and fewer care requirements.

As your optometrist, Dr. Timothy Hennig and Dr. Wylie Tan offer eye exams and ocular disease screenings to patients of all ages. Retinal laser imaging and modern exam technologies allow for earlier detection of many ocular diseases. Early detection can be a great help in slowing the progress of the disease and in reducing the severity of the disease.

Schedule a health examination today!

Are You at Risk of Ocular Disease?

As vision-related diseases and disorders can be passed on from generation to generation, it’s important to know if you are at risk for developing an ocular disease. You may be at risk of an ocular disease if you have:

A Family History of Eye Disease (Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, etc.)
Taken Pharmaceuticals that can Affect Vision
High Blood Pressure or Diabetes
Previous Eye Injuries or Surgeries

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Dr. Wylie Tan & Associates

5.0

Based on 15 reviews

Amanda SP

21:44 01 Sep 24

Dr. Tan is very knowledgeable, thorough, and everyone is very friendly! Very happy to have a great optometrist in this area.

Douglas Vidal

12:57 17 May 24

Dr.Tan is very friendly and does a very thorough examination.Every thing is professional and the staff is courteous and knowledgeable from beginning to the last fitting.

Elizabeth Broadbent

21:47 01 May 24

My husband I had our first visit with Dr Tan. We had a wonderful experience. All the staff were so pleasant and made you feel welcome. Sandie greeted us and took our information then did the initial exam and was so good explaining what was happening and next I saw Dr Tan . It was the most thorough exam my husband and I have ever had and she took her time explaining everything she was doing and why and never rushed the appointments. I needed new glasses and was explained what was happening and why the change which made sense to me. After seeing Dr Tan I saw Laura for new glasses. She was very helpful and I was so surprised at how reasonable the price was I order the two pairs of glasses . One for driving and one for reading. There was a very good variety to choose from. The receptionist Kelly was very helpful and also pleasant. Great staff and Dr and my husband and I forward to our next appointment. Liz and Norm

Amanda McCormick

18:10 16 Nov 23

The best eye doctor office in town very personable

Tom Duliban

18:39 02 Sep 23

After ten years without checking my eyes one day I felt my right eyesight acting up. After a quick trip to a walk-in clinic they suggested I see an optometrist. I phoned Dr Tan at 9. Am and she was able to fit me in for 11:30 To my surprise she stated I had a detached retina. She immediately got me a referral to Hamilton where I had surgery the next day! She. Did my follow up and later also referred me for Cataract surgery as well. I believe if she did not help me when she did I would be blind in one eye! She was very helpful during my time in need and I would definitely recommend her and her staff! Thanks Dr Tan. As a side note everyone get your eyes checked regularly!

Kimberly Cataldo

17:35 24 Feb 23

Professional, explained everything. Receptionist is devine 🙂

Andrew den Hertog

22:58 16 Mar 22

Been going here 10+ years. Dr Hennig was a great doctor, and I wish him well in retirement. Had my first appointment today with Dr. Tan and found her and her staff to be professional, and friendly, ready to answer any questions. Dr Tan was super thorough in her examination and willing to explain exactly what she was doing, very much the same way Dr Hennig did.

Kristen Mercier

11:42 14 May 21

I’ve had a couple appointments now with Dr. Tan & I couldn’t be more impressed with the amazing service. She is very kind & approachable. I had many questions, as I have never had contacts before & she was more than happy to answer everything for me. Laura was also an amazing & patient teacher during the training process. I was nervous & she put my mind at ease. Sandi made me laugh & was very informative while doing all my tests. She explained every machine she was going to use before doing it. Overall, the entire staff is very friendly & makes every visit a great experience.

John Bonomo

23:38 01 Mar 21

After 30 yrs., of being away I booked an appt. with Dr. Hennig once again. I forgot how nice of a fellow he is. He is very thorough with his exams. Dr. Hennig speaks to his patients in a simple basic manner making it so easy to understand. He does not pressure his patients into purchasing eyewear they don't need. Dr. Hennig, I hope You are here for a long time. Small town Doctors are hard to find.

Jeff I

22:44 18 Dec 20

From the moment we walked through the front door we felt more like family then a customer here. Every single person here did an outstanding job. My 6 year old loved Dr. Hennig, he is amazing with kids, and took the time to explain everything to me. I felt like everyone there truly wanted to help us, and not just make some $, which is rare now a days. We will be back! Thank you:-)

Amy Hoad-Owen

15:07 10 Jul 17

I have been going here for 15 years and I love the staff, the selection, the environment. The number of pairs I've broken and had repaired is too many and I've never had a long wait time to get them back. You guys are awesome!

Lindsay Longworth

13:39 30 Sep 16

Best doctor ever! Patient, kind, thorough and amazing with my kids. Only one I'll trust my families eyes with. Staff is outstanding! Recommend to anyone!

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