A: Usually, in an asymptomatic risk free situation, 3-4 years old is a good age to have an initial exam. Of course, if the child exhibits any kind of eye or vision symptom, or is at high risk for a visual problem, they should be seen sooner. After the initial exam, a good time for a recheck is before they start the first grade and every two years thereafter.

Q: How can I reduce strain on my eyes while at the computer?

A: Take frequent breaks, minimize glare from lights and windows, adjust the monitor's brightness and contrast to comfortable levels, select a monitor with a base that is adjustable, & try to position your hard copy at the same distance as your monitor.

Q: If I have trouble while at the computer, can glasses help?

A: There's a good chance that glasses may help. A complete eye exam can help to uncover eye problems that may cause problems at the computer. The following information is helpful when coming in for an exam: Nature of the vision problem, number of hours spent on the computer, type of computer work, distance from eye to the monitor, type of glasses currently using, & workstation setup.

Q: Are sports glasses really necessary?

A: Each year approximately 100,000 school age children suffer a sports-related eye injury. Of those, 25% will probably develop serious complications including cataracts, glaucoma, permanent vision loss, or loss of the eye completely. Nearly all of these injuries are preventable with the appropriate protective eyewear. Sports frames with 3mm polycarbonate lenses are recommended for spectacle wearers in moderate to high risk non-contact sports, such as racquet sports, baseball and basketball. These can also be used in combination with a face mask or helmet in high risk contact sports like football and hockey.

Q: Does laser correction of nearsightedness really work?

A: Yes, current procedures such as LASIK and PRK are able to reduce nearsightedness and thereby reduce your dependence on vision correction. Current statistics show that about 95% of the people undergoing the procedure experience post operative visual acuities of 20/40 or better.

Q: Who is a candidate for surgery?

A: In general, the ideal candidate is over 18 years of age and has healthy corneas. Candidates must not have had significant increase in their glasses or contact lens prescription in the last 12 months. People with certain medical conditions or women who are pregnant or nursing may not be good candidates.

Email Dr. Kuwabara at idoc468@msn.com