Glossary of Terms

A-scan

The measurement of the length of the eye

Acute

Rapid onset, with a short duration

Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelids

Cataract

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in your eye.

Chalazion

A cyst in the eyelid that causes the eyelid to swell

Chronic

Lasting for a long period of time

Diabetic Retinopathy

Changes to the blood vessels on the retina associated with diabetes

Ectropion

An eyelid that sits turned outwards

Entropion

An eyelid that sits turned inwards

Field Test

A test that monitors the quality of your side vision.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a progressive condition, usually caused by raised pressure in the eye.

Keratometry

The measurement of the curvature at the front of the eye (the cornea)

Macula

The part of your retina that is responsible for your detailed, coloured central vision.

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)

A scan used to analyse the retina or optic disc

Ophthalmologist

A medical doctor specialising in the treatment of the diseases of the eye

Orthoptist

A member of the eye care team who assists in investigating and managing disorders of the eye

Pachymetry

The measurement of the thickness of the cornea

Pterygium

A benign growth on the front of the eye
(the conjunctiva), that can distort the vision

Ptosis

A droopy eyelid

Referral

A letter from your local doctor or optometrist to an Ophthalmologist, recommending you see them

Sclera

The white of your eye

Slit Lamp

The microscope the Ophthalmologist uses to examine your eye

SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty)

A laser used to treat glaucoma