The eye works like a camera to produce an image. The components
work together to focus, adjust and refine the light, ensuring the
brain receives an image we understand.
Light enters the eye through the cornea- the window like
structure at the front of the eye.
The iris works like a shutter and changes the pupil size,
adjusting the amount of light entering the eye. This ensures we can
see no matter how bright or dim it is.
Behind the iris the crystalline lens focuses light onto the
retina. It changes shape to allow us to focus on both near and far
objects.
The retina is like the film in the camera. It comprises millions
of light sensitive cells that send signals to the brain through the
optic nerve.
The part of the brain responsible for vision is at the back of
the brain. The light signals are transmitted electrically through
the nerves to the visual cortex where they are transformed into an
image.
At any point on this journey from cornea to visual cortex the
signal can be interrupted. This can be due to something as simple
as the lens not focusing light exactly onto the retina to the
nerves being damaged and not transmitting the information. Within
this section you will find information on many of these conditions,
please read further and if you have any questions do not hesitate
to ask your optometrist.
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Please do not substitute the information in these videos for examination and advice from your optometrist. They are meant as a resource of information not a means of diagnosis. You should not ignore symptoms indicative of serious eye complaints. Please contact your practice immediately if you experience pain, vision loss or flashing lights.