Overview
A pterygium is a raised, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that covers the white of the eye. It usually starts on the side of the eye closest to the nose and slowly extends toward the cornea, the clear front window of the eye.
A pterygium is benign, meaning it is not cancer. Many stay small and cause few problems, but some become red and irritated, change the shape of the cornea, or grow far enough to affect vision. It is sometimes called "surfer's eye" because of its strong link to sun exposure. At Bespoke Eye Care in Chester Springs, we monitor pterygium growth, soothe irritation, and advise when surgery may help.
Symptoms
Some pterygia cause no symptoms and are noticed only as a visible growth. Others can be uncomfortable or affect vision.
Comfort Symptoms
- Redness, especially during flare-ups.
- Dryness, burning, or itching.
- A gritty feeling, as if something is in the eye.
- Irritation when wearing contact lenses.
Vision Symptoms
As a pterygium grows onto the cornea, it can pull on the corneal surface. This may cause:
- Blurred vision from astigmatism created by the growth.
- Changes in your glasses prescription.
- Blocked central vision if the growth reaches the center of the cornea, which is uncommon.
Pinguecula vs. Pterygium
A pinguecula is a related yellowish bump on the white of the eye that does not grow onto the cornea. Both are linked to sun exposure, and a pinguecula can sometimes develop into a pterygium.
Causes & Risk Factors
Long-term ultraviolet (UV) light exposure is the strongest known risk factor for pterygium. Wind, dust, dryness, and chronic irritation of the eye's surface may also contribute.
Who is at risk?
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Spend a lot of time outdoors for work or recreation.
- Live, or have lived, in a sunny or windy climate.
- Work around dust, sand, or other irritants.
- Do not regularly wear UV-blocking sunglasses or a brimmed hat.
- Have dry eyes.
Why it matters
A growing pterygium may cause ongoing inflammation, dry eye symptoms, astigmatism, or obstruction of vision. It can also be a cosmetic concern. Pterygia can sometimes return after surgical removal, which is why prevention matters.
Diagnosis
A pterygium is usually diagnosed during a routine eye exam. At Bespoke Eye Care, we carefully document it so changes can be tracked over time.
- Slit-lamp examination: A magnified view to assess the growth and how far it extends onto the cornea.
- Photography: Images to compare size at future visits.
- Corneal topography: Mapping the corneal surface to measure any astigmatism caused by the growth.
- Refraction: Checking whether your prescription has changed.
Any growth with unusual features is evaluated closely, and we refer for further testing when appropriate.
Treatment & Management
Most pterygia can be managed with monitoring and simple care. Treatment depends on symptoms, size, and whether vision is affected.
Everyday Care
- Lubricating eye drops: Help relieve dryness and grittiness.
- UV protection: Wear wraparound sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and a brimmed hat outdoors.
- Protective eyewear: Shield your eyes from wind, dust, and debris.
Treating Flare-Ups
When a pterygium becomes red and inflamed, we may prescribe a short course of anti-inflammatory eye drops to calm it down.
When Surgery Is Considered
A surgical referral may be recommended if a pterygium is growing toward the center of the cornea, causing significant astigmatism, affecting vision, or remaining irritated despite treatment. Surgeons often place a small tissue graft after removal to lower the chance of regrowth. We coordinate referrals and provide follow-up care.
Protect the Surface of Your Eyes
We can document a pterygium, monitor change, treat irritation, and explain when a surgical consultation may be useful.
Schedule Your Visit Call (484) 606-3937