Pterygium is a benign growth of tissue on the surface of the eye. It usually forms on the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and can spread to the cornea, the transparent part at the front. Although not dangerous, pterygium can cause visual discomfort and, in some cases, vision problems.
What causes pterygium?
The leading cause of pterygium is excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. This is why it is more common in sunny regions and people who spend much time outdoors, especially without adequate eye protection. Other risk factors include exposure to wind, dust and dry environments, which can irritate the eyes and promote pterygium formation.
What are the symptoms?
A pterygium can sometimes go unnoticed, especially if it's small. However, when it does develop, the most common symptoms include:
- Redness and inflammation of the eye.
- A sensation of a foreign body or dry eye.
- Visual discomfort if the growth begins to invade the cornea.
- In more advanced cases, it can even deform the cornea and cause astigmatism, affecting vision.
How is pterygium treated?
Treatment of pterygium depends on the size of the growth and the severity of the symptoms. If the pterygium is small and causes no discomfort, it is often unnecessary to treat it immediately. Artificial tears can help relieve dryness and irritation.
However, if the pterygium becomes bothersome or begins to affect vision, surgery may be considered to remove it. Surgery is generally quick, but there is a risk of recurrence, so it's advisable to take precautions after surgery, such as wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays.
Prevention
The best way to prevent pterygium is to protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses with good UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat. Avoiding dry, dusty environments or using protective eyewear in these conditions is also a good idea.
Although pterygium is benign, it can cause significant discomfort, especially for those who spend much time outdoors. Proper prevention and regular follow-up with your eye care professional are essential to preserve your eyes’ health and avoid long-term complications.
