Eyes

Eyes are the organs of vision. They detect light and convert it into electro-chemical impulses in neurons. The simplest photoreceptor cells in conscious vision connect light to movement. In higher organisms the eye is a complex optical system which collects light from the surrounding environment, regulates its intensity through a diaphragm, focuses it through an adjustable assembly of lenses to form an image, converts this image into a set of electrical signals, and transmits these signals to the brain through complex neural pathways that connect the eye via the optic nerve to the visual cortex and other areas of the brain.

Eye Diseases
cataract - an eye disease that involves the clouding or opacification of the natural lens of the eye macular edema - an eye disease caused by a swelling of the macula resulting from leakage and accumulation of fluid drusen - (plural) an eye disease resulting from small accumulations of hyaline bodies underneath the retina glaucoma - an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and impairs vision (sometimes progressing to blindness) keratonosus - any disease of the cornea macular degeneration - eye disease caused by degeneration of the cells of the macula lutea and results in blurred vision retinopathy - a disease of the retina that can result in loss of vision trachoma - a chronic contagious viral disease marked by inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye and the formation of scar tissue leucoma, leukoma - eye disease consisting of an opaque white spot on the cornea

Protecting Your Eyes

Certain vision problems, such as cataracts and presbyopia, occur as a natural result of aging. However, there are simple steps you can take to help manage many common eye problems and maintain your vision.

Healthy Habits
Enhance your diet Certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and vitamins A, C and E can promote eye health and reduce your risk of developing serious eye problems. A healthy diet consisting of fruits, green leafy vegetables, fish and vitamin supplements may support your vision. Maintaining a healthy weight can also be important, as it can help prevent or control diseases such as diabetes, which can cause vision problems like diabetic retinopathy. Quit smoking Research has shown that not smoking can help reduce the risk of developing degenerative eye diseases. Wear UV-absorbing eye wear and wide-brimmed hats Sunglasses that block 100 percent of the suns harmful UV rays, along with wearing wide-brimmed hats, can help protect your vision.

Maintaining Your Vision

Schedule routine eye exams Your eye doctor will advise you on how regularly you should have an eye exam. This will vary based on your age, health, family history, and whether you wear glasses or contact lenses. Keep contact lenses clean and replace them as recommended Follow instructions on how long to keep contact lenses in your eyes and how frequently they should be replaced. Also, be sure to follow any care and disinfection instructions specific to your contact lenses and lens care products. Prevent injuries Wear safety goggles or glasses when playing sports, mowing the lawn or performing any other task that could potentially cause injury to the eyes.