We all know what the eye is, right? But, what is it exactly? The eye is a spherical object; it is about one inch in diameter. The eye is actually considered an organ; well it is a dual organ since most of us do have two eyes. The eye is contained in a bony type pocket, called an orbit, which does enclose it completely, except for the front part. There are openings at the rear of this pocket of bone or, orbit, for nerves and blood vessels.

What Exactly Is The Eye Made Of?

The very outside layer of the eye, the membrane, is called the conjunctiva. This covers the sclera, or the white of the eye. It is very delicate, this membrane.

The sclera does almost wrap around the whole eye. It is however interrupted bye the cornea (covers the front of the eye) and that very important nerve, the optic nerve at the back. The cornea is usually what gets touched when we get poked in the eye.

Now, behind the cornea lies the iris (the pigmented part that gives the eye its color). And, in the center is the pupil. The lens, it is only pea sized, lies behind the iris. Well, we could get more complicated, but, I think this will do for us right now.

OK, So, What Is On The Other Side Of The Eye?

Well, the retina, a very delicate membrane (almost like tissue) lines the eyeball. It is directly connected with the brain, through the optic nerve. The retina uses more oxygen and nutrients per gram of tissue than almost any other parts of our body.

At the center of the retinal is a tiny little area, the macula, (that is actually Latin for spot). It really is only a spot, but, it is extremely critical to sight. The macula is in the center of the retina. The macula is responsible for focus. It enables us to analyze fine details.

Perhaps the hardest working part of our eye is the retinal. It has lots of layers of vessels, neurons and photoreceptors, these are all continuously active. The eye is actually one of the most complex organs of our bodies. Its capabilities far outweigh even computers.

Over 13 million Americans actually suffer from age related macular degeneration. There is realistic hope based on the latest research, experience, and knowledge. No one needs to become experts at eye anatomy or function. But, the more we know, the more we can be pro-active in our own eye care.