Pterygium
What is Pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign thickening of the outer coating of the eye that grows onto the cornea. As it grows, it may become red and irritated. While it may take some time to grow, if it gets large enough it can impair vision.
What causes Pterygium?
UV radiation (usually from sunlight) is the most common cause of Pterygium. People who spend a lot of time in water sports such as surfing and fishing are particularly susceptible to Pterygium because of the intense exposure to UV that occurs in these types of environments. Outdoor workers are particularly suseptible.
It is know that there is a genetic predisposition, thus a family history of pterygium along with sun exposure is a common scenario
What sorts of treatment are available?
In mild cases, redness and discomfort can be treated with lubricant eye drops. However, surgery is considered if:
redness, irritation or blurred vision do not respond to eye drop treatment
the eye is frequently becoming red and inflamed
the Pterygium encroaches onto the centre of the cornea as this can result in permanent vision impairment
the problem is cosmetically unacceptable
To find out more about Pterygium surgery, visit out Pterygium Procedure page.
What is Pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign thickening of the outer coating of the eye that grows onto the cornea. As it grows, it may become red and irritated. While it may take some time to grow, if it gets large enough it can impair vision.
What causes Pterygium?
UV radiation (usually from sunlight) is the most common cause of Pterygium. People who spend a lot of time in water sports such as surfing and fishing are particularly susceptible to Pterygium because of the intense exposure to UV that occurs in these types of environments. Outdoor workers are particularly suseptible.
It is know that there is a genetic predisposition, thus a family history of pterygium along with sun exposure is a common scenario
What sorts of treatment are available?
In mild cases, redness and discomfort can be treated with lubricant eye drops. However, surgery is considered if:
redness, irritation or blurred vision do not respond to eye drop treatment
the eye is frequently becoming red and inflamed
the Pterygium encroaches onto the centre of the cornea as this can result in permanent vision impairment
the problem is cosmetically unacceptable
To find out more about Pterygium surgery, visit out Pterygium Procedure page.
Pterygium
