Watch: [Understanding Your Body] Eyes

⭐English subtitles available⭐

 

 

There is an old saying that goes,

‘The eyes are the windows of the mind’

 

This emphasizes how the eyes

are among the most important organs in our bodies.

 

Unlike skin, bones, or other internal organs,

the eyes not only have a unique appearance and structure

but also undergo a particularly peculiar process of development.

The eyes are said to be formed during the fetal stage

when a part of the brain undergoes transformation.

 

Therefore, closely connected to the brain

more than any other sensory organ,

the eyes are often referred to as

the ‘windows of the soul.’

 

The eyes, which are paired on both sides of the face,

are our body's sole visual organs that transmit visual information to the brain.

They are approximately 2.4cm in diameter.

 

At the forefront of the eyes

lies a tissue called the cornea,

which acts as a camera lens,

allowing light to pass through.

 

Furthermore, within the pupil

lies a tissue called the iris, which determines the color of the eyes.

As the iris contracts and expands, it regulates the size of the pupil,

determining the amount of light entering the eye.

 

Located just behind the iris, the lens of the eye is convex in shape

and filled with a jelly-like substance, making it highly flexible.

This flexibility allows for easy adjustment of its thickness.

 

As a result, the lens adjusts its thickness

depending on the distance between the eye and the object,

enabling it to accurately focus on the subject.

 

The internal structure of the eye consists of three layers.

 

The outermost layer, called the fibrous layer, is avascular and composed of fibrous tissue.

The middle layer is the vascular layer, as known as the uvea.

Lastly, the innermost layer is the neural tissue known as the retina.

 

The outermost layer, the fibrous layer,

is composed of the cornea at the front and the sclera for the rest.

The sclera, which comprises about 80% of the fibrous layer, is attached to muscles,

allowing for easy movement of the eye

in the upward, downward, and lateral directions.

The sclera, commonly known as the ‘white of the eye,’

is strong and tough, helping to maintain the shape of the eye and providing protection.

 

The middle layer of the eye, known as the uvea,

consists of the iris at the front and the choroid at the back.

Rich in blood vessels, the choroid serves as a source of nourishment for the eye

and is also a common site of inflammation.

 

The innermost layer of the eye, the retina,

contains a wide distribution of light-sensitive cells.

When these cells receive light stimuli,

electrical signals are transmitted through the optic nerve to the brain,

allowing us to perceive objects.

 

The structure of our eyes is very similar to that of a camera,

making it equally complex.

 

Since each organ has its own unique function,

even if only one of them experiences a problem,

we can become acutely aware of the symptoms.

 

Due to aging, the elasticity of the lens may decrease,

leading to its opacity and potentially causing cataracts.

Additionally, if intraocular pressure is higher than normal,

glaucoma may develop.

 

Moreover, conditions such as myopia,

where the eyeball is elongated and the focus falls in front of the retina,

and hyperopia, where the eyeball is shorter and the focus falls behind the retina,

as well as astigmatism caused by irregularities in the cornea, can occur.

 

Therefore, it is advisable to receive an accurate diagnosis

to determine the specific location of the issue within the eye

and proceed with appropriate treatment.

 

Since our eyes function continuously throughout the day,

excluding sleep time, they are one of the most fatigued organs in our body.

 

Especially nowadays, with increased use of computers and smartphones,

many of us inadvertently spend long periods without blinking, putting strain on our eyes.

 

As a result, our eyes easily become dry and fatigued.

Therefore, it is advisable that for every 30 minutes of smartphone use,

take a 10-minute break to look into the distance or close your eyes to rest.

 

Additionally, consciously blinking frequently and using a humidifier

to maintain moisture levels can also greatly benefit eye health.

 

Using preservative-free artificial tears is also a helpful solution.

However, when using eye drops,

it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper prescription and guidance.

 

Nevertheless, if experiencing frequent discomfort in the eyes,

seeking a precise diagnosis and treatment from an ophthalmologist is advisable.