Optometry Terms: F-L
Farsightedness- the lessening of the ability to focus on objects close to the viewer caused by stiffness of the crystalline lens.
Floaters- deposits within the vitreous humour of the eye.
Fluorescein angiography- also called fluorescent angiography. A method used to inspect the circulation of the retina using the dye tracing technique.
Fovea- a small depression in the retina which contains cones, where the vision is most acute.
Fundus- the base of a hollow organ, or the area of the organ that is farthest from its opening.
Glaucoma- an eye disease which damages the optic nerve and weakens vision.
Gonioscopy- an inspection of the front of the eye to examine the angle at which the iris meets the cornea.
Hyperopia- the condition in which vision of distant objects is better than of near objects.
Hyphema- bleeding into the eye chamber.
Intraocular pressure- a pressure caused by the fluids inside the eye.
IOL- a lense implant during which a clear plastic lens is embedded in the eye. Usually done when the natural lens has been removed.
Iris- the colored, round, contractile membrane of the eye, which is suspended between the cornea and lens. In the pupil is located in the center of the iris.
Keratoconus- an abnormal, cone shaped protuberance of the cornea.
Kertometry- the measurement of corneal curves.
Lacrimal gland- glands in the eyes that produce tears.
LASIK- laser assisted in situ keratomileusis, a surgical procedure which reshapes the cornea.
Legal blindness- vision in both eyes that is 20/200 or worse.
Lens- a clear optical tool used to direct light and form images.
Low vision- a loss of vision which cannot be regained.