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Eye Disease Management in Alexandria

Advanced Vision Solutions for an Enhanced Quality of Life

(320) 763-4321

Early diagnosis means earlier treatment and better outcomes.

Whether you have glaucoma, macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, or other eye diseases — we can help.

At Eye Associates of Alexandria, we provide comprehensive eye exams, diagnostic screening and cutting-edge treatments that can slow eye disease progression and help maintain your vision.

senior man during eye exam


Eye Disease Management Includes:

  • Comprehensive eye exam

    Comprehensive eye exams are critical in catching sight-robbing eye diseases that typically don’t show early symptoms.

  • Diagnostic screening

    Certain changes in your eyes can indicate eye conditions. Our optometrists can diagnose the disease and determine the cause of these changes.

  • Treatments and surgeries

    We provide a wide range of treatments, including prescription eye drops and other medication. If needed, we'll refer you to the right specialist for eye surgery.

  • After care and follow-up

    We provide follow-up exams and after-care treatments to help you manage your symptoms and safeguard your vision.


What Are the 4 Most Common Eye Diseases?

  • Diabetic Retinopathy

    If you have diabetes, you should be aware of the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Elevated blood sugar can cause blood vessels in the eye to become inflamed or swell. In the early stages, you may not notice symptoms, but advanced diabetic retinopathy can cause blurred vision or eye inflammation.

    Diabetic retinopathy treatment includes:

    • Prescription medication
    • Laser surgeries
    • Anti-VEGF and steroid injections
    • Vitrectomy
  • Glaucoma

    Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness and often doesn’t show early symptoms. High pressure inside the eye causes glaucoma, and the purpose of glaucoma management is to reduce intraocular pressure.

    Glaucoma treatments include:

    • Prescription eye drops or medications
    • Laser procedures
    • Filtration surgery
    • Drainage tubes
    • Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
  • Cataracts

    Cataracts are cloudy formations on the eye lens. They can make your vision blurry and distorted. To restore normal vision, an optometrist will recommend cataract surgery, which involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens.

  • Macular Degeneration

    Macular degeneration, or AMD, occurs when the macula or the central part of the retina deteriorates. This results in blurred and distorted vision.

    There are two types of AMD: Dry AMD and Wet AMD.

    Although there isn’t a treatment for dry AMD, lifestyle changes and specific supplements can help prevent further vision deterioration.

    Wet AMD treatments include:

    • Photodynamic therapy
    • Anti-VEGF injections
    • Laser photocoagulation

Distorted or Blurred Vision? Have a family history of serious eye diseases?

Schedule an eye exam at Eye Associates of Alexandria in Alexandria. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve eye health and prevent vision loss.


Eye Disease Management FAQs

Do eye problems run in the family?

Yes. Genetics increase our chances of developing diseases that impact vision and eye health.

In fact, over 350 eye diseases are attributed to hereditary factors, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and retinitis pigmentosa. Learning about your family’s medical history can provide important clues regarding your predisposition to certain eye diseases and vision problems.

How to prevent eye diseases?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and getting regular eye exams can improve your chances of maintaining clear vision and eye health.

Make sure to:

  • Avoid smoking
  • Maintain healthy blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
  • Wear sunglasses that offer 100 UV protection
  • Have regular eye exams
What are the symptoms of serious eye problems?

Although certain eye diseases show specific symptoms, the signs vary according to the condition. Keep in mind that some eye diseases, such as glaucoma, often don’t show early symptoms—which is why it's important to get regular eye exams.

If you experience any of the following, contact Eye Associates of Alexandria immediately.

  • Blurry or double vision
  • Eye inflammation or eye pain
  • Eye Floaters
  • Eye swelling
  • Blind spots

If you experience any symptoms or have a family history of eye diseases, make sure to schedule a consultation and eye exam at Eye Associates of Alexandria in Alexandria today.

Patient Reviews
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262 Reviews
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- Oct. 16, 2024
I had the best experience at Eye Associates. Michelle was very friendly and knowledgeable and she ab... solutely made my day when she found me not only one, but two, frames that looked and felt great! Thank you!
- Sep. 20, 2024
Dr. Melissa is excellent, efficient, and kind. Very knowledgeable and truly cares about the patient ... at each visit. Highly recommend!
- Aug. 31, 2024
Great service and selection!!
- Aug. 25, 2024
Excellent care and service. Thank you
- Aug. 14, 2024
All staff were extremely friendly and helpful in answering my questions. Definitely felt like I had ... Dr. Melissa's entire attention, as well as the other staff and they didn't rush me or pressure me to buy something I didn't need or that was out of my price range. Very much recommend Eye Associates of Alexandria!
- Aug. 04, 2024
Had my first visit and love it. The entire staff is kind and A= customer service.
- Aug. 02, 2024
Terrific service and knowledge from Dr. Hoven. The staff are all extremely helpful, professional, an... d friendly.
- Jul. 23, 2024
Dr John Hoven is the epitome a caring, compassionate and dedicated doctor. He took time to explain ... all the eye test scans & results, listened to my concerns and made sure to answer any questions I had. I wish all doctors were so knowledgeable and caring.
- Jun. 27, 2024
I went into the office close to closing time without an appointment as one of my eyeglass lenses pop... ped out due to part of the eyeglass frame breaking. I was shocked how quickly I was helped as I didn't expect to be seen or helped that day. Tech John came out and said I'll see what I can do and in 30 minutes and at no charge he had repaired the damage perfectly. He couldn't have been more kind and spent extra time just talking to me. The people here were so honest and humane. I see why this clinic is so popular . It starts at the top . I'd give it 10 stars if I could .
- Jun. 27, 2024
I was visiting Alexandria when I had an urgent need to get seen. Eye Care of Alexandria fit me in sa... me day with Dr John. He was so incredibly helpful and attentive to my situation. I'm so grateful for the whole teams support. If I was local this would definitely be the place I get seen.
- Jun. 26, 2024
The entire staff is great. I have had dozens of eye exams, Dr Melissa gave the most thorough and I s... ee better than ever.
- Jun. 24, 2024
The staff is knowledgeable, informative and great to work with.
- Jun. 04, 2024
Always professional and compassionate.
- May. 21, 2024
Staff was courteous, professional, helpful, and prompt. Everyone did a great job to ensure I got exa... ctly what I needed.
- Mar. 07, 2024
Wonderful staff and great service. We LOVE our new glasses!
- Feb. 05, 2024
Very friendly staff! Went above and beyong to find a pair of glasses that they did not carry and or... dered them for me. Gave me the BOGO 50% off when the brand I choose was not supposed to be in that promo, but she gave it to me anyway without me asking. I will continue to go back to Eye Associates!
- Jan. 13, 2024
Have not heard from Vance Thompson yet from the referral I was suppose to get
- Jan. 12, 2024
I have had nothing but a pleasant and good experience with Dr Mellisa Hoven and her staff. My trust ... in Dr Hoven’s expertise and professional care is beyond superior.
- Dec. 27, 2023
Dr. Melissa Hoven and the staff are great! I always feel so confident that I am getting the best ca... re.
- Nov. 17, 2023
Great service.

View All 262 Reviews

Eye Disease Management in Alexandria

Our optometry practice in Alexandria

Photograph of Eric  Von Holdt
Hours
  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am - 3:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Avesis

senior lady with macular degeneration

Compassionate Care and Expertise You Can Trust

(320) 763-4321