The eye is a complex organ, made up of tissues and specialized components that work together and produce sight. This complexity makes the eye sensitive to damage or disease; if one component is experiencing issues, eyesight as a whole is affected. Eye damage and disease can cause permanent problems and inhibit the long-term health of your vision. Below, we talk about major components of the eye and their related diseases.
Cornea
As the outermost part of the eye, the cornea s is composed of layers that protect inner structures, such as the lens and pupil. This structure boosts the focusing power of the eye, enhancing what we see for more efficient processing. When you have issues with eyesight, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, it is usually due to an improperly shaped cornea.
Keratoconus is one of the more common cornea diseases that affect its thickness and shape. In severe cases, a cornea transplant is required while hybrid contacts can sometimes correct the sight issues caused by this disease.
Lens
The lens sits behind the pupil, focusing light and images after they have passed through the cornea. Then, these light and images are then transferred onto the retina and down the optic nerve to be translated into information the brain can read. Additionally, the lens is responsible for shifting focus between distances.
Cataracts are an issue caused protein buildup on the lens. This can happen to anyone, although it is more common in adults over the age of 80. This cloudiness can affect one eye or both and requires surgery to correct.
The Optic Nerve
Carrying information from the retina to our brain, the optic nerve connects what we see to the processing centers in our mind. It is attached to the back of the eye, surrounding the retinal vein and artery. It is a vital component of our eyesight and relies on the consistent and normal pressure inside the fluid inside your eye, also known as the vitreous body.
Glaucoma is a condition of poor or diminishing eyesight due to a disproportionate amount of pressure inside the eye. When too much eye fluid accumulates, the pressure cuts off the optic nerve from the retina. Without immediate attention, you can lose your vision completely.
Contact Alabama Vision Center
When you have eye issues, it’s important to seek out care from experienced specialists, who can take care of those problems. Alabama Vision Center is staffed by specialists who can take care of concerns regarding your eyesight. Contact us today if you need help with your vision, are experiencing eye pain, or are looking for prescription eyeglasses or lenses.