Introduction to the Eye

(time 1:05) : How the Eye Works

The inner workings of the human eye are complex, but at the same time, fascinating. The eye is easy to understand if you think of it as a camera. When you take a picture - the lens in the front of the camera allows light through and focuses that light on the film. When the light hits the film, a picture is taken. The eye works in much the same way. In a healthy eye, the lens is clear and allows light to pass through. Light is focused by the cornea and lens onto a thin layer of tissue called the retina. The retina works like the film in a camera. When light hits the retina, tiny cells collect the light signals, and convert them into electrical signals, which are then sent through the optic nerve, and to the brain, where they are processed into the images we see.

(time 0:46) : Chalazion Description

A Chalazion is a small firm bulge in the eyelid, caused by a blocked opening or infection of the oil producing glands, located in the upper or lower eyelids. They are frequently associated with a condition called Blepharitis. Chalazia may be uncomfortable, unsightly or interfere with vision. They are initially red, swollen, and tender. In rare cases, the Chalazion may grow large enough to apply pressure on the eye, causing droopiness of the eyelid, and blurred vision.

(time 1:37) : Conjunctivitis Description

Conjunctivitis, also called “pink eye,” occurs when the conjunctiva covering the white part of the eye becomes inflamed or infected. Many cases of Conjunctivitis are associated with allergies, but can also be caused by viral, or bacterial infections. During conjunctivitis, blood vessels within the eye dilate and fill with blood, causing redness and inflammation. The eye feels irritated and in some cases there may be a yellowish discharge, that can cause the eyelids to stick together. Conjunctivitis can be very contagious. People who have it should not share anything that they touch. Not everyone with redness in the eye has conjunctivitis. Sometimes there are more serious diseases, such as damage to the cornea, angle-closure glaucoma, or inflammation inside the eye, that causes the conjunctiva to become inflamed and pink. Conjunctivitis rarely affects one's vision. If vision is affected, if there is a discharge, any light sensitivity, or if the problem does not resolve within a few days, patients should see an eye doctor immediately.

(time 0:56) : Dilation

A dilated retinal examination is very important. The reason is, that the use of these dilation drops will allow the ophthalmic practitioner to identify and diagnose more accurately problems of the eye that might otherwise go undetected. For example, without adequate pupilary dilation, cataract formation can be entirely overlooked. Posterior vitreous detachment, the most common cause of symptoms of flashes and floaters, cannot be properly diagnosed. Diseases of the peripheral retina cannot be observed. We know the dilation experience is inconvenient, but the benefits far outweigh the potential alternatives.

(time 1:37) : The Importance of Complete Eye Exams

Caring for your eyesight begins with complete eye examinations. Complete eye exams are about more than just testing your vision — it’s a full check-up for your eyes. Many eye care problems can develop over long periods of time — without symptoms — and can irreversibly damage your vision. Regularly scheduled complete eye exams are the best way to detect such conditions early, and address them before they develop into more serious problems. Most adults should have a complete eye exam every one to two years. Children should receive complete eye exams regularly as they grow — to detect and treat eye conditions that can affect their progress in school. Infants should have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months, and subsequent exams as directed by their eye doctor. Patients who are at a higher risk for certain conditions — such as diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, and those over the age of 40 — should have exams more frequently, as recommended by their eye doctor. Remember that caring for your eyesight begins with complete eye examinations. They are the best way to detect eye conditions early, and address them before they develop into more severe problems.