Eye Exams in Penticton

Disease and Health Management

Our Optometrists' access to advanced instruments and diagnostic equipment onsite allows for the detection and monitoring of various eye conditions, including Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Retinopathy. As part of the Hatchard Optometry Group family, Dr. Specs Penticton also has access to the disease management clinic at Glenmore Optometry in Kelowna, providing comprehensive care for all types of eye disease.
 

• Diabetic Eye Exams
  If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to manage your blood sugar levels. But did you know that diabetes can also significantly impact your eye health? Diabetic eye disease is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness among adults in the North America. That's why regular diabetic eye exams are essential in preserving your vision and overall eye health.
  
  During your eye exam, our experienced optometrists will closely examine your retina for signs of diabetic retinopathy and other related eye conditions. By monitoring your eye health regularly, we can provide early intervention and treatment to prevent vision loss and maintain optimal eye health.
  
  Protect your vision and take control of your eye health by scheduling a diabetic eye exam today. Your eyes are worth it!
   

• Cataracts
  Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects many adults as they age. Usually painless, cataracts cause the eye's lens to become cloudy and block light from reaching the retina, resulting in blurry vision. The development of cataracts is often slow and, therefore, not always detected until significant vision loss occurs. Early detection and treatment are key to maintaining proper vision.
  
  If you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts, such as difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, or faded colours, schedule an appointment with us today for your comprehensive eye exam.
   

• Glaucoma
  Glaucoma is a serious sight-threatening condition in which abnormal pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve. Typically, the pressure or IOP (intraocular pressure) is too high for the blood vessels and optic nerve to function normally, leading to vision loss. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the country. Most cases are found in the population over age 40, and more women than men have the disease. Two-thirds of glaucoma cases are in the Caucasian population, approximately 20% are African-American, and 10% are Hispanic. Glaucoma continues to rise in the population every year.
  
  The key to treating glaucoma successfully is early detection and progressive monitoring of the condition. Comprehensive eye examinations and diligent monitoring will help prevent vision loss from this disease.
   

• Macular Degeneration
  Macular degeneration is a disease that affects a small area of the retina known as the macula. The macula is a specialized spot on the retina that allows us to see the fine detail of whatever is in front of us. Macular degeneration occurs when the macula begins to deteriorate.
  
  Several uncontrollable factors contribute to macular degeneration, including age, sex, eye colour, farsightedness, and race. Risk factors you can control include smoking, high blood pressure, exposure to harmful sunlight, and diet.
  
  Dry macular degeneration is difficult to detect in its early stages. The most common symptoms, when detected, include a spot of blurry vision, dark vision, or distorted vision. Wet macular degeneration progresses much faster than the dry variety. Both forms of macular degeneration can cause blindness.
  
  Seeing your optometrists routinely is the best defence, as it allows early detection and intervention.
   

• Dry Eye Disease
  If your eyes are constantly itchy or dry, you may have dry eye syndrome, which 25% of Canadians. Dry eye syndrome is caused by a lack of, or poor quality of, tears. Tears lubricate the outer layer of the eye called the cornea. If the tears are not adequate or are not composed of a proper balance of mucous, water, and oil, the eye becomes irritated.
  
  Dry eye syndrome leads to a number of symptoms, including itchiness, irritation, burning, excessive tearing, redness, blurred vision that improves with blinking, and discomfort after long periods of watching television, using a computer, or reading.
  
  There are many factors that can contribute to dry eye syndrome. These include dry, hot, or windy climates; high altitudes; air-conditioned rooms; and cigarette smoke. Contact lens wearers, people with abnormally dry skin, and the elderly are more likely to develop dry eye syndrome. You may also be more at risk if you take certain medications, have a thyroid condition, a vitamin-A deficiency, Parkinson's or Sjorgen's disease, or if you are a woman going through menopause.
  
  Kelowna Dry Eye Centre provides comprehensive insight into the cause of your dry eye. With various treatment options available, relief from dry eye is attainable.
  
  Ask your Optometrist about a referral for our complimentary dry eye assessments.