What is a pterygium?
A pterygium is a non-cancerous growth of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the cornea in the eye's white area. The cornea is the eye's transparent front surface. It can remains small, or in some instances it may grow. It is caused by ultraviolet light exposure from the sun, as well as exposure to wind and dust.
How severe is a pterygium?
At times a pterygium can cause vision changes if it becomes large. Treatment for mild instances often includes eye drops or ointment to reduce irritation. In more severe circumstances, surgery to remove the pterygium may be necessary for therapy.
How severe is a pterygium?
It is uncommon for a pterygium to cause extensive corneal scarring. Because it can result in vision loss, corneal scarring has to be addressed. Treatment for mild instances often includes eye drops or ointment to reduce irritation. In more severe circumstances, surgery to remove the pterygium may be necessary for therapy.
Symptoms of Pterygium?
Symptoms
Not every pterygium results in symptoms. A pterygium may not be very obvious in the early stages. However as it grows, it may begin to cause foreign body sensation, irritation, or redness.
If you have symptoms, your eye may:
- Burn
- Feel sullen
- Itch
- Look Red
- Burn
- Feel sullen
- Itch
- Look Red
Additionally, you can have itching or a burning feeling. Your eyesight may be affected if a it spreads to cover your cornea
Causes
The main contributing factor to pterygia is exposure to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation. People who live in sunny climates and those whose work exposes them to UV rays are more likely to experience this (e.g., farmers, fishers, arc welders).
Pterygia, however, can also arise from eye discomfort brought on by wind, dust, or debris.
Diagnosis
A thorough examination is necessary to ensure that there is no atypical features to the pterygia.
Measurements of the pterygia or even pictures may be taken.
Prevention
Avoid exposure to environmental elements that might result in a pterygium to lower your likelihood of acquiring one. By protecting your eyes from sunlight, wind, and dust with sunglasses or a hat, you can lessen your risk of developing it.
A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective eyewear may help stop the development or spread of pterygium.
Avoiding aggravating environmental factors, including smoking, dust, wind, and chemical contaminants may help.
Additionally, using artificial tears to keep your eyes moist in dry conditions.
Treatment
Dr. Bala specializes in medical and surgical therapy of pterygium. If surgery is necessary, the pterygium can be excised and a transplant of thin normal tissue can help reduce the chances that the pterygia will grow back.
- Protection from UV radiation- If the pterygium is minor, painless, and not interfering with your eyesight, we may monitor with routine eye exams.
- Drops or ointments- To cure mild irritability or to lubricate and calm the cornea, use drops or creams. An eye specialist may prescribe a brief steroid eye drops for severe irritation. These drugs do not treat the condition; they treat the symptoms.
- Surgery- Surgery is the only therapy that can get rid of a pterygium. Additionally, a pterygium might be removed for aesthetic purposes.
- Every 1-2 years, the optometrist will examine your pterygium to ensure it is not becoming large.