AXIS OF THE EYE Meaning and
Definition
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The axis of the eye refers to an imaginary line passing through the center of the eyeball that connects the anterior and posterior poles. It is an essential reference point for measuring and correcting astigmatism, a common refractive error that causes blurred vision.
The shape of the cornea and lens in the eye is typically spherical, but in individuals with astigmatism, these structures are more oval or irregular. As a result, light entering the eye does not focus properly on the retina, leading to distorted and blurry images. The axis of the eye is crucial in determining the direction and degree of astigmatism, as it represents the orientation of the oval irregularities in the cornea or lens.
When diagnosing and treating astigmatism, eye care professionals utilize the axis of the eye to prescribe corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses. These lenses have varying degrees of curvature in different meridians to compensate for the irregularities in the cornea or lens. The prescribed lens power and cylinder axis are determined based on the specific measurements of astigmatism obtained during an eye examination.
In summary, the axis of the eye plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating astigmatism. It is an imaginary line passing through the center of the eyeball that represents the orientation of the irregularities in the cornea or lens causing blurred vision. Understanding the axis allows eye care professionals to precisely prescribe corrective lenses, optimizing visual clarity for individuals with astigmatism.
