Many people practice healthy eye care, from scheduling routine eye exams to shielding them from harsh sunlight. But have you ever wondered about how the eyes function? Below are a few facts about these crucial organs.

Facts You May Not Know About Eyes

1. They Change Color, Not Size

The eyeballs are one of the few parts of the human body that stay the same size from birth to death, unlike our nose and ears. Although the size of the eyeballs maintains a consistent width of about 1 inch, the color may change. A baby may be born with blue eyes, but have brown eyes as an adult. This is because the light influences the production of melanin, the pigment that causes the color.

2. Vision Impairment Is Common

If you wear contact lenses or visit your doctor frequently for eye exams, you’re not alone. According to the World Health Organization, about 1.3 billion people globally experience vision impairment, with the leading cause attributed to uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts. Most of the people with vision issues are over 50 years old.

3. They’re Among the Most Complex Organs

Eyes are one of the most complex organs in the human body, second only to the brain. Seeing takes about 50% of brain activity. The muscles that control our eyes are the most active in the body, which makes sense considering the average person blinks between 15 and 20 times per minute.

4. They’re Incredibly Resilient

Although they’re sensitive and delicate, eyes are resilient. This organ is protected by eyelids and eyelashes, as well as layers of fat and muscle. With proper care after an eye exam, a corneal scratch usually heals within a couple of days.  

If you’re due for an eye exam, the eye doctors at Jamison Eye Care in Rochester, NY, will perform a comprehensive exam to ensure these vital organs continue to function properly. They help patients maintain their vision health through glaucoma testing, glasses fittings, and contact lenses prescriptions. Call (585)-225-5883 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to browse their services.