Vision Therapy in Austin

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(512) 343-0432

Exploring the Hereditary Nature of Myopia

Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is a visual condition that results in blurry distance vision while nearby objects remain clear. Concerns about your child's sight often lead to the question: Does myopia run in families? Understanding the genetic aspects of myopia is crucial for proactive management.

kids in classroom


mom reading book to child

The Genetic Factor

Myopia does indeed have a genetic link. If one or both parents have myopia, the likelihood of their children developing this condition increases. When both parents have myopia, the risk is even greater. Indeed, the genetic factors contributing to myopia can pass from generation to generation.

Environmental Factors

Lifestyle choices and daily habits can significantly impact myopia development and progression. Excessive screen time, a lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged periods of near work, such as reading or studying, can increase the risk of myopia.

Children are especially susceptible to environmental factors as their visual systems are still developing. These external influences can work in tandem with genetics, shaping how myopia progresses over time.


Early Intervention is Key to Myopia Control

Knowing your family's myopia history can help you seek early intervention. Effective strategies can manage and control its progression, even with a genetic predisposition.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Simple lifestyle changes, like reducing screen time and increasing outdoor activities, can reduce myopia progression and protect your child's visual health.

  • Dietary Choices

    Nutritional adjustments, such as a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, can support your child's vision and contribute to myopia management.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Scheduling routine eye exams allows for early detection and timely intervention, which is crucial in managing myopia.

  • Educational Support

    Providing information and support about myopia to family and friends can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a network of care.

Patient Reviews
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227 Reviews
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- 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!
- Apr. 29, 2024
What an amazing place! Everyone was kind, helpful, and seemed to enjoy what they were doing. So happ... y to have found this office! Loved Dr. Gasser who explained everything to me so that I fully understood! Don’t let the “curb appeal” fool you, this place is wonderful!
- Apr. 29, 2024
I’m so glad I found a wonderful eye Dr near me. She is very nice and thorough . The staff is nice ... and very efficient. It was a nice, comfortable process to get my new glasses.
- Apr. 20, 2024
Not pushy, down to earth!

View All 227 Reviews

Myopia 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

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Professional Myopia Solutions for Your Family

Understanding the hereditary aspect of myopia is the first step in addressing your concerns. Discover how our experts can help manage the risks of myopia within your family. Visit Far West Optical today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(512) 343-0432