What is Pterygium?
Have you ever noticed a little bump or growth on the white part of your eye, especially near the corner closest to your nose? This might be what we call a pterygium (pronounced “ter-ridge-ee-um”). It’s a common eye condition, especially here in sunny Jamaica, where we get a lot of sun exposure!
What Causes Pterygium?
Pterygium usually develops due to too much exposure to sunlight, wind, dust, or dry environments. People who spend a lot of time outdoors, whether for work or leisure, are more likely to develop this condition. Think of it like your skin getting a little sunburn, but on your eye.
What Does It Look Like?
It looks like a fleshy, pinkish growth that starts on the white part of the eye (called the conjunctiva) and can slowly move toward the colored part of the eye (the cornea). It can make your eye feel a bit irritated, dry, or red.
Is It Dangerous?
Most times, pterygium is harmless and doesn’t affect your vision much. But if it grows too large, it can start to cover the cornea and affect your sight. It’s important to get it checked out, especially if it’s growing or bothering you.
How Can I Prevent It?
The best way to prevent pterygium is by protecting your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses that block UV rays, especially when you’re outdoors. Hats with wide brims can also help. And if you’re working in dusty or windy environments, try wearing protective eyewear.
How Is It Treated?
If your pterygium is small and not causing much trouble, we might just give you some eye drops to help with irritation. But if it’s getting bigger or starting to affect your vision, surgery might be needed to remove it.
When Should I See a Doctor?
If you notice any new growth on your eye or feel any discomfort, it’s always a good idea to visit your eye doctor. We’ll check your eyes and decide the best treatment for you.
Our conjunctival autograft technique gives a good cosmetic result and has a low risk of the pterygium growing back (less than 2 percent).
