Eye care

Structure of the eye

The eye is a complex, highly sensitive organ.
It is responsible for converting the light that enters it, into images, that are transmitted from the retina to the brain, via nerve cells.

Each eyeball is held in a bony socket (orbit) by six muscles which control the movement of the eye. Although the bone surrounding the eyeball protects it from damage by large objects, it has no effect on the potentially damaging smaller objects, such as dust. Access to the eye of such objects is restricted by the eyelashes and and eyelids. The eyelids close across the surface of the eye several times a minute, automatically (blinking), however they will also close in response to bright lights, increased air movement near the eye and when the eyelashes are touched.

The surface of the eyeball and the inner side of the eyelids are lined with a transparent film called the Conjunctiva. The surface of the conjunctiva is kept moist by fluid (tears) produced by lachrymal glands, which are located around the eye. Not only does the fluid trap particles, such as grit, it also contains an enzyme, Lysozyme, that kills bacteria, and so, protects the eye from infection.

Any substance that is trapped by the fluid will be removed when the tears drain from the eyes into the nasal cavity, through lachrymal canals. The amount of tear fluid covering the eye is usually kept at a constant level, although more is produced when the eye is irritated by dirt particles or infection, or when crying.

Blinking not only helps to refresh the tear fluid, but also speeds up the removal of potentially damaging substances.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.