Eye Exams in Northfield, MN
When Last Did You Have Your Eyes Checked?
Many people believe their eyes must be healthy if they can see clearly. However, vision is only one aspect of your eye health. At River Valley Eye Professionals, we go beyond checking your eyesight—we ensure your eyes are healthy and identify any potential problems early on. Learn why a comprehensive eye exam is essential for you and your family.
More Than Meets The Eye
What is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
A comprehensive eye exam is an in-depth evaluation of your eye health and vision conducted by an eye doctor. Unlike a simple vision screening, which only measures your ability to see at a distance, a comprehensive exam assesses various aspects of your eye health. During this exam, we will check your eye pressure, evaluate your retina and optic nerve, and test your visual acuity, among other things. This thorough examination lets us detect issues a basic vision screening might miss.
Our Latest Technology Is More Precise
What Can Vision Exams Detect?
These exams can detect refractive errors and common eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, but they can also uncover other health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, strokes, and much more.
Here’s What The AOA Recommends
When to Schedule Your Next Eye Test
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), the frequency of comprehensive eye exams depends on your age, health, and risk factors.
- Children: The AOA recommends that infants should have their first eye exam at six months. Preschool children should have at least one eye exam between the ages of three and five. Once children start school, they should have annual eye exams.
- Adults (18 to 60): Adults should have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years. However, if you wear glasses or contact lenses or have diabetes or a family history of eye disease, you may need to have exams more frequently.
- Adults (61+): As we age, the risk of developing eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases. Therefore, the AOA recommends that adults aged 61 and older have a comprehensive eye exam every year.
Our eye doctors can provide a personalized recommendation based on your specific needs.
Your Little Ones Need Exams, Too
Pediatric Eye Exams
As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes their vision. Did you know that 80% of learning is visual? This makes regular eye exams crucial for your child’s development. Our pediatric eye exams can uncover eye conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) or strabismus (crossed eyes), ensuring your child doesn’t miss out on learning opportunities.
If You Have Diabetes, We’re Here to Help
Diabetic Eye Exams
Diabetes can affect your eye health, increasing the risk of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Regular eye exams are essential for detecting these issues early and preventing vision loss. Our eye doctors can monitor your eye health, providing tailored care and treatment to manage any complications. Your eyes deserve the best care, especially when managing a chronic condition like diabetes.
Getting Contacts? We Have an Exam for That!
Contact Lens Exams & Fittings
If you’re considering contact lenses, a standard eye exam isn’t enough. Our contact lens exam includes measurements of your cornea, tear film evaluation, and a discussion about your lifestyle to determine the best type of contacts for you. We ensure your lenses fit perfectly while educating you on proper lens care to maintain optimal eye health.
Eye Exam FAQs: Get the Details
Is a comprehensive eye exam the same as a vision screening?
No, a comprehensive eye exam and a vision screening are not the same. A vision screening is a basic test that checks how well you can see at a distance and whether you need glasses or contact lenses. It’s often performed in schools, at the DMV, or as part of a routine check-up.
Why would you choose an Optomap exam?
An Optomap exam provides a comprehensive view of your retina, allowing for early detection of eye diseases like glaucoma and macular degeneration. It’s quick, painless, and often doesn’t require dilation, making it more comfortable than traditional methods. The detailed images help monitor your eye health over time, giving you peace of mind that your eyes are thoroughly checked and protected.
How long does a comprehensive eye exam take?
A comprehensive eye exam typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour. This time allows your eye doctor to thoroughly assess your vision, check for eye diseases, and discuss any concerns you may have about your eye health. The exact duration can vary depending on the tests performed and your specific needs.
Schedule an Exam for Your Whole Family
Don’t Miss Seeing Your World
Whether you need a routine check-up, are planning to get contact lenses, or have a specific health concern, River Valley Eye Professionals is here for you. Our comprehensive eye exams offer the most thorough evaluation of your eye health, ensuring you receive the best care possible. Schedule an appointment and let us help you see and feel your best.
Here For You Every Step of The Way
Meet Our Trusted Eye Doctors
We understand that eye care is personal and can sometimes feel intimidating. Our eye doctors take the time to answer your questions, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed throughout your visit. We provide precise diagnoses and effective treatments, always explaining each step in clear, simple terms. Whether you’re here for a routine eye exam or a more specialized treatment, you can trust that our team will take care of you to the outmost of their ability.
Dr. Miliner | Dr. Heilman | Dr. Bosworth (Amunrud)