What is a pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)?
A pterygium is a triangle-shaped growth of the membrane that covers the white part of your eye (the conjunctiva).
A pterygium is non-cancerous, and is made up of collagen and tissue that grows from the conjunctiva and eventually grows over the cornea (the clear window of the eye). Pterygia are more commonly located on the inner or medial portion of the eye (toward the nose).
What causes a pterygium?
The exact cause is not known. However, it has been associated with excessive exposure to:
- Sunlight
- Wind
- Dust or pollen
- Sand
- Smoke
Protecting your eyes from the elements can help slow the growth of a pterygium.
Even though a pterygium is considered a benign growth of the eye, it can become an annoyance when it becomes irritated or inflamed. If you notice any type of growth on the eye, it is important to have it properly diagnosed by your local doctor of optometry.
What can be done to treat a pterygium?
Normally there is no discomfort or symptoms associated with a pterygium so it does not need treatment. Your doctor of optometry may want to check your eyes occasionally to see if the growth is causing vision problems.
If you experience pain or discomfort, pterygium can be treated with eye drops and/or anti-inflammatory drops.
If these don’t work, your doctor of optometry may suggest surgery to remove the pterygium. This might be an option if it becomes very large, irritated, affects your vision, or for cosmetic reasons. Your doctor of optometry will refer you to an ophthalmologist to surgically remove the excess tissue.