The eye is connected to the brain and dependent upon the brain to interpret what we see. Sight, like the other senses is closely related to other parts of our anatomy. The five senses include sight, sound, taste, hearing and touch. The, clear, gelatinous substance filling the central cavity of the eye. The white outer coat of the eye, surrounding the iris.

The retina senses light and creates electrical impulses that are sent through the optic nerve to the brain. The nerve layer lining the back of the eye. This opening and closing of light into the eye is much like the aperture in most 35 mm cameras which lets in more or less light depending upon the conditions. The pupil changes size to adjust for the amount of light available (smaller for bright light and larger for low light). The dark center opening in the middle of the iris.

Glaucoma is one of the most common eye conditions related to optic nerve damage. This reversal of the images that we see is much like a mirror in a camera. The retina sees images upside down but the brain turns images right side up. (In order to see, we must have light and our eyes must be connected to the brain.) Your brain actually controls what you see, since it combines images. The deterioration of the macula is a common condition as we get older (age related macular degeneration or ARMD).Ī bundle of more than a million nerve fibers carrying visual messages from the retina to the brain. In the macula these light-sensitive cells allow us to see fine details clearly in the center of our visual field. The area in the retina that contains special light-sensitive cells. Intraocular lenses are used to replace lenses clouded by cataracts. Our lens deteriorates as we age, resulting in the need for reading glasses. The lens is transparent, and can be replaced if necessary. And when there is low light, the iris opens up the pupil to let in more light.įocuses light rays onto the retina. When there is bright light, the iris closes the pupil to let in less light. The colored part of the eye which helps regulate the amount of light entering the eye. The center of the macula which provides the sharp vision. Corrective laser surgery reshapes the cornea, changing the focus. The clear front window of the eye which transmits and focuses (i.e., sharpness or clarity) light into the eye. Structure containing muscle and is located behind the iris, which focuses the lens. For additional information visit Linking to and Using Content from MedlinePlus.Layer containing blood vessels that lines the back of the eye and is located between the retina (the inner light-sensitive layer) and the sclera (the outer white eye wall). Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited without authorization. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy editorial process and privacy policy. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. is accredited by URAC, for Health Content Provider (URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M.

Retina anatomy diagram