Eye Anatomy.
Function of the Eye
The eye is a complex organ that functions much like a camera, converting light into electrical signals. These signals are sent to the brain, where they are processed into the images we see.
Each part of the eye plays a crucial role in providing clear vision and allowing us to navigate our environment.

Structures of the Eye
Cornea
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The first entry point for light into the eye.
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Kept moist by constant tear production.
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Dry eyes can blur vision by affecting the light passing through this structure.
Pupil
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Controls how much light enters the eye.
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Small (constricted): Less light enters.
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Large (dilated): More light enters, allowing for a more thorough internal eye exam.
Iris
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The coloured part of the eye.
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Controls pupil size based on light conditions.
Lens
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Focuses light onto the retina.
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Adjusts shape for reading up close or viewing distant objects.
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With age, the lens loses flexibility, making it harder to adjust focus. This results in the need for reading glasses later in life.
Vitreous
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A gel-like substance that fills the eye’s interior.
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Responsible for the production of floaters (tiny shadows in vision).
Retina
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A thin tissue layer at the back of the eye.
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Functions like film in a camera, capturing light and converting it into electrical signals.
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Contains blood vessels for nourishment.
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Processes fine detail, color vision, and peripheral vision.
Macula & Fovea
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Macula: The area of the retina responsible for color vision and fine detail.
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Fovea: The center of the macula, where cells for central vision are most concentrated.
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Diseases like AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) can damage the macula, causing central vision loss.
Optic Nerve
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The communication system between the retina and the brain.
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Transmits visual information to the brain to create the images we see.
Eye Health.
UV Protection for Your Eyes
Sunglasses have been popular with people for years, both for comfort and as a fashion accessory. Ophthalmologists (medical eye doctors) now believe there is another reason to wear sunglasses – to protect the long-term health of your eyes. Results from a dozen studies over the last 10 years suggest that long hours in the sun without proper eye protection increase your chances of developing eye disease.
In 1988, a group of ophthalmologists studied 838 Chesapeake Bay fishermen who had spent years working on the water. The fishermen who wore no eye protection had three times as many cataracts as those who wore sunglasses or a brimmed hat. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Based on this study and others, ophthalmologists now recommend that you wear UV-absorbent sunglasses and a brimmed hat whenever you’re in the sun long enough to get a suntan or a sunburn, especially if you live at a high elevation or near the equator.
Low Vision Aids
When you are faced with low vision, there are options for continuing the activities you like to do. Most individuals start out with large-print books, the use of a magnifier, improved lighting and using high contrast materials, such as black pen on white paper so the writing stands out more.
Our office can refer you for a low vision assessment at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), where they can suggest a variety of additional aids and support to help maintain your independence.
There are also options available online for those who like to use their computer depending on the system that you use. Click here to find an example of what is offered from Microsoft: screen magnifiers, speech recognition, talking word processors, screen readers, etc.
Important Links.
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AMD Alliance: for AMD support and information
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Canadian National Institute for the Blind: for information about low vision tools, assessment and support
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Canadian Uveitis Society: for information about Uveitis
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Stargardt’s Disease: information on this hereditary disease
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Von Hippel Lindau Disease: information on this hereditary disease