What is Pterygium ?

Pterygium is a noncancerous growth that develops on the white bit of your eye.

Pterygium usually cause irritation, redness or a sensation of something in the eye, and sometimes cause decreased or distorted vision after changing the shape of the cornea.

What is Pinguecula ?

Pinguecula is a small, raised, white- or yellow-colored growth that is limited to the conjunctiva.

Pinguecula may contain deposits of protein, fat or calcium

Causes of Pterygium & Pinguecula

Long-term exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) light (most common cause).
Eye irritation from wind and dust.

Signs and symptoms of Pterygium & Pinguecula

Eye irritation.
Dry eyes.
Feeling like you have sand or grit in your eye.
Teary eye.

Treatment options for pinguecula & pterygium

The majority of pinguecula & pterygium cases don't require any treatment. If you also experience accompanying symptoms of dry eye syndrome, or it feels like there's something in your eye, lubricating eye drops can help to relieve symptoms.
Wearing sunglasses or contact lenses with UV blocking filters may help to protect the pinguecula from further exposure to UV light.
In the very rare event that a pinguecula becomes increasingly uncomfortable or inflamed, it may be necessary to have it removed with surgery.

Prevention of Pterygium & Pinguecula

Wear sunglasses with UV protection and a hat when you're outdoors, especially if you spend a lot of time on the water.

How serious is pinguecula?

The vast majority of pinguecula cases are harmless and only require simple treatment, like eye drops.