A community-based clinic continuing a legacy of eye health and vision protection since 1982
As summer brings longer days and higher UV indices, White Rock Optometry Eye Clinic is reminding the community of the critical importance of protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Since 1982, the clinic has been a cornerstone of eye health in White Rock, and its recent move to a bright, modern facility at the Foster Martin Building marks a renewed commitment to lifelong vision care.
The risk of prolonged UV exposure over one’s lifetime can accelerate the development of cataracts and macular degeneration, two leading causes of vision loss. The delicate skin of the eyelids is also prone to UV-induced cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma. Even a single day of intense sunlight can cause photokeratitis – a painful “sunburn” of the eye – but it’s the cumulative, long-term exposure that poses the greatest risk, making prevention the best medicine.
Basal cell carcinoma of the eyelid is a common skin cancer linked to UV exposure seen here with biomicroscopy.
“Both the internal and external parts of our eyes are vulnerable to sun damage,” explains Dr. Kelsey Snow, one of the five female owners of White Rock Optometry. “Conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration and eyelid cancers are all linked to UV exposure. The good news is that early detection and prevention can make a world of difference.”
White Rock Optometry emphasizes the importance of comprehensive eye exams that include biomicroscopy of the eyelids and advanced retinal imaging such as Optomap and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), all of which they offer at their clinic. These technologies allow for early detection of subtle changes of the eyelid skin or freckles (nevi) in the iris or choroid, which require careful monitoring.
OCT imaging reveals macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness can be related to UV exposure.
“Eye exams are important for early detection and management. Many eye conditions and even eye diseases are symptom-less in their early stages. ” Dr. Juliana Jarvis, a fellow owner of the clinic, explains. “With our OCT-imaging and Optos wide-field retinal imaging, we’re able to quickly identify early warning signs for our patients and potentially avoid vision loss and permanent damage to the eye.”
To further reduce the potential risks of eye diseases, the clinic recommends that everyone wear properly fitting sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. “Sun safety is important even on cloudy days, and especially when you are near water or snow,” Dr. Juliana Jarvis. “Children tend to have larger pupils and crystalline lenses that are clearer, so it is important, even from a young age, to wear quality sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection.”
White Rock Optometry’s new clinic, located in the Foster Martin building– book your eye exam and protect your vision today.
After more than 40 years in the community, White Rock Optometry’s new clinic offers optimal clinical flow, natural light and a welcoming atmosphere. The fully female-owned practice is proud of its deep roots and ongoing dedication to patient-first care.
For more information on protecting your vision or to book an appointment, visit whiterockoptometry.com or call 604-536-4999. Your eyes are irreplaceable – make their care a priority this summer and beyond.