What is the Colored Part of the Eye Called?
What is the Iris?
The colored part of the eye is called the iris. It is a circular muscle that sits behind the cornea and regulates the amount of light that enters the eye. The color of the iris is determined by the amount of melanin found in it. This is why people’s eyes can be different colors such as blue, brown, green, gray, or hazel.
Functions of the Iris
The iris not only controls the amount of light that enters the eye, but also helps the eye focus. By contracting or dilating, the iris can control the size of the pupil, which is the opening in the center of the eye. When the pupil gets bigger, more light is allowed to enter the eye, thus helping the eye focus on whatever the person is looking at.
Diseases of the Iris
Unfortunately, the iris can be affected by certain diseases. One such disease is glaucoma, which is an eye disorder that affects the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Another disease is uveitis, which is an inflammation of the iris. When this happens, the iris may become swollen, leading to pain and blurred vision.
Treatments for Diseases of the Iris
Fortunately, there are treatments available for diseases of the iris. For glaucoma, medications or laser surgery may be prescribed to reduce pressure in the eye. For uveitis, medications are used to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any scar tissue or repair the iris.
Conclusion
The colored part of the eye is called the iris. It is responsible for controlling the amount of light that enters the eye and helps the eye focus. Unfortunately, the iris can be affected by certain diseases, such as glaucoma and uveitis. Fortunately, there are treatments available for these diseases, including medications and surgery.