PTERYGIUM
Pterygium is a wedge-shaped growth of the mucous membrane that covers the white part of your eye which extend onto the cornea (window of the eyes). They are benign (noncancerous) and usually doesn’t cause problems but it can be removed if it affects your vision.
Symptoms
Symptoms which usually affect either one or both eyes include:
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Burning and stinging sensation in your eyes.
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Redness
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Sore eyes
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Blurred vision
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Watery eyes
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Discomfort while wearing contact lenses
Causes
Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light appears to be the primary cause for the development and growth of pterygium
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People who live in hot, dry, sunny regions and spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny or windy environments, have higher risk of developing pterygium.
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Exposure to certain elements on regular basis also increases the risk on developing pterygium. These elements include pollen, sand, smoke and wind.
Pterygium Treatments
Pterygium usually doesn’t require any treatment unless the growth of pterygium is causing severe discomfort or vision is affected. Treatments for pterygium:
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Medication. Eye drops or ointments will be presciibed to reduce inflammation if have redness or severe irritation
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Surgery. Pterygium surgery may be undertaken if eye drops or ointments do not provide relief and the pterygium has troublesome symptoms or cause vision impairment
