Healthwise
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Aqueous humor
The shape of the front part of the eye is maintained by a fluid called aqueous humor.
- Aqueous humor is made by the ciliary body. Strands from the ciliary body support the lens behind the colored part of the eye (iris).
- Aqueous humor flows into the front of the eye through the pupil.
- Aqueous humor drains out of the eye through the trabecular meshwork. The trabecular meshwork is a spongy mass of tiny canals located in the drainage angle. The drainage angle is located between the iris and the clear covering of the eye (cornea), where the iris meets the white outer covering (sclera) of the eye.
- Aqueous humor is returned into the bloodstream through a tiny channel (Schlemm's canal) located under the trabecular meshwork.
Aqueous humor is produced by and removed from the eye at a constant rate [about 1 tsp (5 mL) a day] to maintain a constant pressure in the front (anterior) chamber of the eye. While pressure in the eye varies throughout the day, the normal pressure within the eye is 10 mm Hg to 21 mm Hg.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.