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Eye Disease Management in Austin

Advanced Vision Solutions for an Enhanced Quality of Life

(512) 343-0432

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 Far West Optical, 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 Far West Optical in Austin. 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 Far West Optical 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 Far West Optical in Austin today.

Patient Reviews
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231 Reviews
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- Nov. 27, 2024
I've had very good experiences with Far West Optical. Dr. Gasser is excellent and I just placed a co... ntact lens order with Tremaine who was very communicative & helpful sorting out an insurance glitch!
- Nov. 16, 2024
Definitely recommend Far West Optical. Everyone is friendly and happy to help, and Dr. Haselhorst re... ally listens to you about your eye care questions. I'm so grateful I found this practice.
- Nov. 05, 2024
Dr Gasser is a great physician, highly recommend her and the wonderful staff.
- Nov. 01, 2024
Dr Haselhorst is excellent. Easy manner, explains the complexity of your eyes in understandable ter... ms which helps with the collaborative aspect of what is the best solution for the precious aspect of your vision. I've seem many doctors in my life and he is the top of that list.
- Oct. 29, 2024
Staff was very caring and thoughtful
- Oct. 28, 2024
Very helpful
- Oct. 24, 2024
very kind and professional staff. Dr. Gasser was wonderful. this was my first time to see her and i ... couldn’t be more pleased.
- Oct. 04, 2024
The staff is personable and friendly, and Dr. Hazelhorst spends lots of time and explains his exams....
- Sep. 19, 2024
Dr. Gasser was very professional, listened to my concerns, and even gave me a sample of eye drops I ... needed which was unexpected but very nice. I was having issues with getting my insurance verified and the front desk people were able to get it sorted while I was there. Everyone was very friendly and professional and I look forward to my next appointment to try contacts 🙂
- Sep. 04, 2024
Excellent service and great selection of frames
- Aug. 21, 2024
Dr. Gasser is AMAZING and her staff and phenomenal!
- Jul. 15, 2024
Great doctors, good staff, and Gloria is an excellent optician!! She always gets my glasses right o... n the first try.
- Jul. 06, 2024
Very knowledgeable and professional. Answered all my questions.
- Jun. 30, 2024
The staff here are always helpful, courteous from scheduling to picking out frames, getting repairs ... and replacements done! Thank you!
- Jun. 23, 2024
They are competent and helpful.
- Jun. 19, 2024
Overall great experience! Staff was friendly and helpful and so were there HCP.
- Jun. 15, 2024
I highly recommend Far West Optical. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff.
- Jun. 11, 2024
Great service and the doctor was very nice
- May. 29, 2024
Thoughtful and thorough experience. I highly recommend Far West Optical.
- May. 11, 2024
dr. H is a great optometrist! he explains things in layman's terms, is patient, a great listener, a... nd all around a great person. HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommended!

View All 231 Reviews

Eye Disease Management in Austin

Our optometry practice in Austin

Photograph of Erik  Haselhorst
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross

senior lady with macular degeneration

Compassionate Care and Expertise You Can Trust

(512) 343-0432