Vision Therapy in Austin

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(512) 343-0432

Are You at Risk?

High myopia, often referred to as severe nearsightedness, is a condition characterized by a high degree of myopia, resulting in significant difficulty seeing distant objects. While myopia can pose challenges, individuals with high myopia face an increased risk of developing severe eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. Understanding the connection between high myopia and these eye conditions is crucial for early detection and intervention.

woman rubbing eyes


man rubbing eyes

Defining High Myopia

High myopia is typically diagnosed when a person's prescription exceeds -6.00 diopters. It often occurs when the eyeball becomes elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This structural change sets high myopia apart from mild to moderate myopia.


Serious Eye Diseases Associated with High Myopia

  • Retinal Detachment

    High myopia significantly raises the risk of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, detaches from its normal position. This separation can lead to vision loss and requires immediate medical attention.

  • Retinal Tears and Holes

    High myopia can lead to the development of retinal tears or holes, which may be precursors to retinal detachment. These issues must be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

  • Glaucoma

    Individuals with high myopia may face a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor and manage this condition effectively.

  • Cataracts

    While not directly caused by high myopia, individuals with high myopia may experience an earlier onset of cataracts, which cloud the eye's natural lens and lead to decreased vision.

  • Myopic Macular Degeneration

    High myopia can contribute to the development of myopic macular degeneration, a condition affecting the central part of the retina (macula). This can lead to central vision loss, impacting one's ability to see fine details clearly.


Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Serious Eye Conditions

While high myopia is associated with an increased risk of severe eye diseases, there are steps you can take to reduce this risk:

  • Get Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for early detection and timely intervention. Your eye care professional can monitor the health of your eyes and address any emerging issues promptly.

  • Myopia Management

    If you or your child has high myopia, myopia management strategies, including orthokeratology (ortho-k) and low-dose atropine, can help slow the progression of myopia and reduce the associated risks.

  • A Healthy Lifestyle

    A balanced diet, regular outdoor time, proper exercise, and lifestyle choices that promote overall health can contribute to better eye health. This can reduce your long-term risk of severe eye conditions.

  • Protect Your Eyes

    If you engage in sports or activities that pose a risk to your eyes, consider protective eyewear to prevent injuries that could exacerbate eye issues.

Patient Reviews
4.7
227 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- 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

woman with contact in mirror

Far West Optical: Your First Line of Defence Against High Myopia

The link between high myopia and serious eye diseases underscores the importance of proactive eye care. If you have high myopia or a family history of the condition, regular eye exams and discussions with your eye care professional are vital to safeguard your vision and reduce the associated risks.

Contact Far West Optical to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(512) 343-0432