Stonewire Optometry Insider

By joining the Stonewire Optometry insider list you will become privy to all the latest eye care trends and products. 

As an optometry clinic, your email address will never be sold to a third party agency. Stonewire respects your right to privacy. You may elect to discontinue receiving emails at any time.  

 

Book your annual eye exam with a Doctor of Optometry at 
Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall Today.

Contact Lens Corner: It's probably time to change your contact lenses

Time to Change your Contact Lenses-StoneWire-Optometry-Kingsway-Mall-Edmonton.jpg

Are you like most contact lens wearers who forget to dispose of their contact lenses on time? Then it may be time to find a solution. Over wearing or extending the life of your contact lenses can lead to increased contact lens intolerance, dry eye sensation, and blurry vision. Waiting to change your contact lenses until they become uncomfortable is an eye infection waiting to happen.

If you wear a 2-week disposable contact lens like Acuvue Oasys or Acuvue Advance, then change them with every paycheck. If you wear a 1-month disposable contact lens like Air Optix Aqua Comfort Plus or Biofinity, then change them on the first or last day of every month.

The alternative to these extended contact lens modalities is to also consider switching into a 1-day disposable contact lens like Dailies Aqua Comfort Plus, Acuvue 1-Day Moist, Acuvue TruEyes or the all new Dailies Total 1 and enjoy a clean new contact lens every day.

If technology is more your thing, consider joining Acuminder by the makers of Acuvue Brand contact lenses. This online tool allows you to schedule text message or email reminders for when it’s time to change your contact lenses.

 

Book your annual eye exam with a Doctor of Optometry at 
Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall Today.

Did You Know? Reading in Dim Light

Child Reading in Dim Light.jpg

Reading in dim light will not cause you to go blind, but it can increase visual strain. Dim light causes your pupils to increase in size, which requires your eye muscles to work harder in order to keep the page in focus. This increased ocular effort may lead to headaches or visual fatigue. As such, we usually recommend that people avoid reading in dim light and opt for a nice reading lamp instead.

 

Book your annual eye exam with a Doctor of Optometry at 
Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall Today.

StoneWire Optometry in Kingsway Mall - Coming Soon!

The all new StoneWire Optometry will be opening up on the lower level of Kingsway Mall next door to Pearle Vision optical on January 7, 2014 @ 1:00pm.

Optometrists Dr. Ross McKenzie and Dr. Jeff Holtz will be providing family focused comprehensive eye care and contact lens services, along with emergency eye care services and ophthalmology referrals. The clinic will offer extended office hours for your convenience including evening and weekend appointments.

To book your next eye exam at StoneWire Optometry in Kingsway Mall, please contact us @ 780.628.6886.

 

StoneWire Optometry
Kingsway Mall - Edmonton
 

We Accept Alberta Blue Cross

StoneWire Optometry and Pearle Vision Optical in Kingsway Mall have the ability to direct bill your Alberta Blue Cross vision insurance plan at the time of your next eye exam or eyewear purchase. If you or your employer has added coverage for optical services/vision care to your Alberta Blue Cross Insurance plan, then a portion of or all of your visit or eyewear purchase may be covered.

With so many individuals and local employers offering group coverage through Alberta Blue Cross such as: teachers union (asebp), nurses union and some divisions of the City of Edmonton. StoneWire Optometry is trying to make it more convenient for you to unlock your vision care benefits.

How do I know if I have vision coverage?

  1. Your card must be from Alberta Blue Cross
  2. Your card needs to say ‘vision’ on it

What’s covered under Alberta Blue Cross Vision Care?

  1. Eye Exams
  2. Contact Lenses
  3. Prescription Eyeglasses
  4. Prescription Sunglasses

To learn more about the products and services available through Alberta Blue Cross or the coverage on your current plan, please visit their website at: ab.bluecross.ca or call an Alberta Blue Cross customer service representative toll free at 1.800.394.1964

 

StoneWire Optometry
Kingsway Mall - Edmonton

Why Does My Eye Twitch?

A twitchy eye is generally considered a non-serious eye condition and is commonly experienced by patients. Medically, an eyelid twitch is referred to as‘Myokymia’.  The twitching sensation is the result of the sudden spasmodic contraction of the obicularious muscle, which is normally used for closing your eyelids. The twitching sensation most often effects the lower eyelid and occasionally can even place pressure on the eyeball itself causing the eye to twitch. Some patients are convinced that their eye is actually twitching, however, this is a vary rare phenomenon.  Symptoms from myokymia can last up to a month and can disappear as quickly as they began.

The most common causes of myokymia include:

  • Stress

  • Caffeine

  • Alcohol

  • Fatigue

  • Eye infection

  • Tourette Syndrome

  • Excessive exercise

  • Reduced potassium levels 

Although most eyelid twitches are not medically significant, it is always best to visit your optometrist or eye doctor to rule out any other more serious eye related diseases. Treatment for myokymia usually involves rest and relaxation, drinking plenty of water, and eating foods high in potassium. 

Fun Fact: Did you know that seeing your eye doctor for a condition like myokymia is now covered under Alberta Health Care.

If you're concerned about myokymia and your overall eye health, than book a routine eye health examination with one of our optometrists.

Book Your Next Eye Exam with Stonewire Optometry
Kingsway Mall | Edmonton | Alberta

Same Day Delivery - Eyeglasses

Same Day Eyeglass Delivery.jpg

If your eyeglasses are broken, you live far away, you’re travelling or you’re just in a hurry, then why not let the people at Pearle Vision Optical in Kingsway Mall help you out with their same day prescription eyewear service.

With an in house optical lab, Pearle Vision can provide you with a same day service on most prescription eyewear. *

Walkin appointments for eye exams are also available from one of our onsite optometrists, so don't forget to update your prescription first!

*some restrictions may apply, please see Pearle Vision in Kingsway Mall for details. 

Book Your Next Eye Exam with Stonewire Optometry
Kingsway Mall | Edmonton| Alberta

Halloween at Kingsway Mall

Your invited to the annual Kingsway Mall Halloween trick or treat bonanza. Come one, come all and join the Halloween fun. Bring your little ghosts, goblins, princess’ and superheroes to Kingsway Mall this Wednesday for a little trick or treating excitement. Be ready to howl!

What: Go shop-to-shop and collect Halloween candy and prizes from local Kingsway Mall merchants.
Why: Your kids will be warm and safe, they’ll actually be able wear their Halloween custom without a parka over top and you can sip a coffee. How civilized!
Where: Kingsway Mall – Edmonton, AB
When: Wednesday October 31, 2012 – 5:00pm to 7:00pm

Optical Assistance for Seniors

Many Edmonton seniors are surprised to learn that the Alberta Seniors Health Benefit program will provide up to $230.00 towards the purchase of new eyewear every 3 years. Most seniors are also surprised to learn that Alberta Health Care also covers the costs associated with a complete eye health examination by an optometrist every year. 

To learn more about what’s covered through the Alberta Seniors Health Benefit program or to sign up, visit the Alberta Government website at Alberta.ca 

If you are already enrolled in the Alberta Seniors Health Benefit program, accessing your eye care benefits is easy. Simply provide your optical provider with your Alberta Health Care number along with a valid government issued photo-ID at the time of purchase.  

Book Your Next Eye Exam with Stonewire Optometry
Kingsway Mall | Edmonton | Alberta

We Accept Alberta Blue Cross Insurance

Alberta Blue Cross Card.jpg

Stonewire Optometry and Pearle Vision Optical in Kingsway Mall have the ability to direct bill your Alberta Blue Cross vision insurance plan at the time of your next eye exam or eyewear purchase. If you or your employer has added coverage for optical services/vision care to your Alberta Blue Cross plan, then a portion of or all of your visit or eyewear purchase may be covered.

With so many individuals and local employers offering group coverage through Alberta Blue Cross such as: teachers union (asebp), nurses union and some divisions of the City of Edmonton. Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall is trying to make it more convenient for these people to access their vision care benefits.

How do I know if I have vision coverage?

  1. Your card must be from Alberta Blue Cross
  2. Your card needs to say ‘vision’ on it

What’s covered under Alberta Blue Cross Vision Care?

  1. Eye Exams
  2. Contact Lenses
  3. Prescription Eyeglasses
  4. Prescription Sunglasses

To learn more about the products and services available through Alberta Blue Cross or the coverage on your current plan, please visit their website at: ab.bluecross.ca or call an Alberta Blue Cross customer service representative toll free at 1.800.394.1964

Book Your Next Eye Exam with Stonewire Optometry
Kingsway Mall | Edmonton | Alberta

AIR OPTIX & Breakfast Television Contest

Air Optix Multifocal Contest.jpg

Starting October 15, 2012 keep an eye out on Breakfast Television for commercials talking about the new AIR OPTIX AQUA MULTIFOCAL contact lenses. Designed for patients with active lifestyles who require bifocal or progressive eyeglass lenses, this contact lens may provide comfortable vision at all distance or at least allow you to read the menu after your hockey or soccer game.

Fact: Contact lens usage drops off after the age of 40, because of near vision problems out of traditional contact lenses.

So before you give up on your contact lenses, talk to your Kingsway Optometry eye doctor about whether or not multifocal contact lenses like AIR OPTIX AQUA MULTIFOCAL may be a part-time solution to your vision needs.

During this promotion, viewers can also register at breakfasttelevision.ca to win a $3000 trip to the Caribbean plus a year’s supply of AIR OPTIX contact lenses.

Dry Eye Syndrome: Signs/Symptoms/Causes

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common visual concerns that eye doctors see on a daily basis. It is often confused for ocular allergies or other eye health conditions, leading to inappropriate or ineffective treatment options. As such, it is important to know the signs of symptoms of dry eye syndrome and what can cause it or makes it worse.

Typical signs & symptoms may include:

  • Scratchy/Gritty Sensation
  • Burning/Stinging
  • Redness
  • Itchy Eyes
  • Sharp pain
  • Blurred vision or fluctuating vision
  • Excess tearing

Common causes may include:

  • Aging
  • Environment factors
  • Reduced blinking
  • Contact lens wear
  • Eyelid conditions (meibomianitis & blepharitis)
  • LASIK and other refractive surgeries
  • Medications (antihistamines, acne medications, water pills, etc.)
  • Hormonal changes, including menopause
  • Medical conditions (diabetes, arthritis, thyroid problems, Sjogren’s, etc.)

If you think that you may have dry eye syndrome, talk to one of our Kingsway Optometry eye doctors about possible treatment options during your next eye test.

Contact Lenses: up to $100.00 off Purchase Price

Kingsway Optometry is happy to announce 3 great new in-store contact lens purchase deals for you to choose from.

Deal #1: AIR OPTIX (1-month disposable contact lenses)

  • Save up to $50 off your next purchase of AIR OPTIX contact lenses.
  • Purchase 4 boxes of AIR OPTIX, AIR OPTIX for ASTIGMATISM or AIR OPTIX AQUA MULTIFOCAL monthly disposable contact lenses and receive a $35.00 rebate, or purchase 4 boxes of AIR OPTIX NGIHT & DAY AQUA overnight wearable contact lenses and receive a $50.00 rebate.

Deal # 2: FreshLook (2-week disposable coloured contact lenses)

  • Save up to $25.00 off your next purchase of FreshLook contact lenses.
  • Purchase 2 boxes of FreshLook ColorBlends, FreshLook Colors or FreshLook Dimensions coloured contact lenses and receive a $25.00 rebate.

Deal # 3: DAILIES  (1-day disposable contact lenses)

  • Save up to $100.00 off your next purchase of DAILIES AquaComfort Plus contact lenses.
  • Purchase 8 (90 Pack) boxes of DAILIES AquaComfort Plus 1-day disposable contact lenses and receive a $100.00 rebate.

These great contact lens deals are only available in-store at Kingsway Optometry, offer expires December 31, 2012. See a store associate for details. Valid eye exam and contact lens fitting are required.

Back to School Eye Exams

Back to School Eye Exams.jpg

Book your children in for their back to school eye exam at Kingsway Optometry. A comprehensive eye test by one of our optometrists will help to ensure that they are ready for another school year.

Your child’s eye test will include a comprehensive eye health examination along with a complete vision check for eyeglasses. Children should receive their first eye test by 3 years of age or as young as 6 months of age if you or pediatrician have any concerns or there is a family history of vision or medical problems.

Eye health exams and vision testing is covered under Alberta Health Care for children 18 years of age or younger. There is no charge for you child to be seen by an optometrists for annual eye exams and vision tests.

If your child already wears eyeglasses, please talk to us about healthy contact lens options for sports, recreation or school.

Contact Lens Irritation & Smoke

Campfire.jpg

With campfire season upon us, it’s time to be reminded about things that can lead to ocular irritation. Campfire smoke and cigarette smoke can contaminate your contact lenses and lead to ocular surface irritation and dryness.

If your eyes become sore and irritated, remove your contact lenses immediately. Use an artificial lubricating drop such as Systane Ultra to flush the eye out and rehydrate the ocular surface. Discard the contaminated contact lens or thoroughly rinse and clean the lens before reusing it. Never put a contact lens into a red irritated looking eyeball, as this can result in a serious eye infection. If the redness does not disappear or your vision seems blurry, seek the guidance of an optometrist.

FYI: Visits to your optometrists for eye infections are now covered under Alberta Health Care. A valid Alberta Health Care card is required.

The Best Pair of Glasses for Your Favourite Sport

Sports Eyewear.jpg

There is a little professional athlete inside all of us. Our competitive nature comes out with friends, colleagues and family reunions. But in order to perform at your best, you must have clear, comfortable vision in all lighting conditions. Our eyes tend to lead our actions.

Athletic eyewear begins with a routine eye health and vision examination with an optometrist. Your optometrist can help determine if corrective lenses are required or if you have any oculomotor (eye movement) problems holding you back from peak performance. Your eye doctor can also suggest vision correction solutions based on your eye health, lifestyle and activities. One pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses may not be adequate for everything.

Sports eyewear can help prevent blunt trauma or injuries and improve visual comfort. Eyewear can also be sport-specific, and we’ve provided a few helpful hints to consider when shopping for your new eyewear.

Running Glasses

Look for eyewear that will not easily slip down your nose when you sweat or bounce when you run. Running eyewear must be comfortable for long distances and offer 100% UV protection. Trail runners should look for shatter-resistant lenses to protect their eyes from tree branches (ask for polycarbonate or trivex/phoenix lenses).

Cycling Glasses

Look for polarized sunglasses to help cut down road glare and improve the visibility of potholes and obstacles. The frames must provide adequate protection from the wind and elements, especially when leaning forward on the bike. They should fit seamlessly and comfortably under your helmet. Non-polarized sunglasses tend to be more favourable for mountain biking as they produce more consistent shadows during dynamic movements.

Golf Glasses

Look for polarized sunglasses that do not cause peripheral distortions. These distortions can make it difficult to read the greens for proper ball movement. Low quality, high wrap frames and lenses are not an option. Look for quality sunglass brands worn by the professionals on tour.

Fishing Glasses

See what you’re trying to catch by wearing polarized sunglasses. These lenses will knock out the glare from the water’s surface and allow you to see into the water.

Racket Sports

Squash, racketball and tennis are high-velocity sports that require properly fit athletic eyewear. There are numerous potential causes for an eye injury during a typical match; from the ball, the racket or another player. Once again, look for shatter-resistant lenses to protect your eyes, and safety frames designed to withstand high impact. Consider a headband or strap to ensure that the eyewear does not move.

Can I Swim in My Contact Lenses?

No, is the general answer to this question. Swimming in contact lenses may increase your risk of developing a serious eye infection, corneal scarring or vision loss. Contact lenses are porous like sponges and will absorb microbes, chemicals and other impurities from the water. These impurities are then left in constant contact with the surface of the eye, increasing the likelihood of ocular surface disease.

If you must swim in your contact lenses, it’s important to always wear a good fitting pair of swimming goggles, and never open your eyes under water without wearing goggles. Contact lenses can swell and adhere to the surface of the eye, or they may fall out and be lost. Once you get out of the water, it’s important to discard your contact lenses and open a fresh new clean pair. If you swim regularly, you may want to consider try a 1-Day disposable contact lens instead. These lenses should also be discarded after swimming and a fresh new clean pair inserted for the reminder of the day.

Book your next eye exam with an optometrist at Kingsway Optometry and ask about your options for swimming.

Open for Eye Exams

Open 7 Days a Week.jpg

Kingsway Optometry is open early, open late and is now open every Saturday & Sunday. We keep increasing access to our eye care clinic to better serve our growing customers base. With over 70 years of eye care experience we continue to evolve and adapt to our customers needs.

Book your next eye exam with Kingsway Optometry at a time that works for you! Book Now.