Glossary of Related Terms G-M ( A-F, N-Z )

Glaucoma: An eye disease in which the internal pressure of the eye increases; it may cause permanent damage to the optic nerve that can lead to blindness if not properly treated. (learn more)

Hyperopia (Farsightedness): a condition in which close-up objects appear blurred.

Keratoconus: A disease in which the cornea becomes misshapen, causing blurry vision. (learn more)

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A type of laser eye procedure used to treat various refractive or focusing errors of the eye. LASIK creates a flap that is opened to expose inner corneal tissue for reshaping, thereby eliminating (or reducing) the corneal refractive error and significantly changing the requirement for corrective eyewear. The procedure is relatively painless with a rapid healing process.

Lens: A crystalline, biconvex tissue within the eye that focuses light rays upon the retina; this is the structure on which cataracts may form.

Macula: The area of the retina responsible for clear, detailed central vision.

Macular Degeneration: A disease in which the macula undergoes vascular or aging changes that may lead to the loss of central vision if untreated. (learn more)

Myopia: Nearsightedness; a condition in which distant objects appear blurred. (learn more)