Glossary
Aqueous humour
This is the clear fluid inside the eye in front of the lens.
Conjunctiva
The conjunctiva is a membrane that covers the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids.
Cornea
The cornea is the clear layer that covers the front of the eye over the
pupil and iris.
Ciliary body
The ciliary body is a structure that lies behind the outer edge of the iris and is involved with maintaining intra-ocular pressure.
Dispensing Optician
This person is qualified to fit and supply glasses, contact lenses and low vision aids.
Iris
The iris is the coloured part of the eye that surrounds the pupil and controls the amount of light reaching the retina.
Ophthalmic Optician
Ophthalmic Opticians (also called Optometrists or simply Opticians) often
have their office in the high street practices but may also work in hospitals.
Ophthalmic Opticians will refer you on to your GP, if necessary, who may
refer you to see an ophthalmologist. They cannot carry out eye operations
but they will be able to discuss your condition and provide advice.
Ophthalmic Nurse
These professionals have specialist training in eye diseases as well as general medical training.
Optometrists
(See Ophthalmic Optician).
Orthoptist
An orthoptist is a professional who identifies and provides non-surgical
treatment for specific eye conditions, such as squints.
Ophthalmologist
An ophthalmologist is an eye specialist who usually works in the ophthalmology departments of a hospital. They may prescribe glasses although they do not fit and supply them. Ophthalmologists diagnose eye conditions and provide treatment (medication and lens prescriptions) as well as carrying out surgical operations.
Optic nerve
The optic nerve is the bundle of nerve fibres that transmits signals from the back of the eye to the brain.
Pupil
The pupil is the circular opening in the centre of the iris that permits light to reach the retina.
Retina
The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that detects light and sends
nerve impulses to the brain via the optic nerve.
Short-sighted
People who are short-sighted do not see things clearly unless they are relatively
close to the eye - also known as myopia.
Trabecular meshwork
A structure surrounding the entire circumference of the front chamber of the eye through which aqueous humour enters the drainage canal.
Trabeculectomy
A surgical operation to create improved drainage at the site of the trabecular
network.
Tunnel vision
Tunnel vision is impaired sight, in which objects cannot be seen unless they are close to the centre of the field of view.
Visual acuity
Visual acuity means sharpness of vision or the amount of detail the eye can detect.