ögnum

Ögnum is the Icelandic word for eyes, the pair of sensory organs that enable vision. In humans, two eyes provide binocular vision, depth perception, and a wide field of view.

Anatomy: The eye consists of protective outer structures—the eyelids, eyelashes, and conjunctiva—which shield the globe. The outer coat includes the cornea at the front and the sclera at the back. The middle layer contains the iris, pupil, and ciliary body, which controls the lens and aqueous humor. The lens focuses light onto the retina, a light-sensitive layer lining the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptor cells: rods, which are more sensitive in low light, and cones, which detect color and detail. The optic nerve carries signals from the retina to the brain.

Function: Light passes through the cornea and pupil, is adjusted by the lens, and forms an image on the retina. Photoreceptors transduce light into neural signals that the brain interprets, yielding sight. Binocular input from both eyes enables depth perception and a stable view of the environment.

Common conditions and care: Refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism affect focus and are commonly corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Other conditions include cataracts (clouding of the lens), glaucoma (optic nerve damage often linked to pressure), and retinal disorders like age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye examinations, protective eyewear, and sun protection support eye health.