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What is a pterygium?
Pterygia are more common in sunny
climates and in the 20-40 age group.
Scientists do not know what causes
pterygia to develop. However, since
people who have pterygia usually have
spent a significant time outdoors, many
doctors believe ultraviolet (UV) light
from the sun may be a factor. In areas
where sunlight and wind is strong or
dust is prevalent, wearing protective
eyeglasses, sunglasses, and/or hats with
brims are suggested.
It is a
benign condition and will not spread to
damage the internal part of the eye.
Because a pterygium is visible, many
people want to have it removed for
cosmetic reasons. Lubricants can reduce
the redness and provide relief from the
chronic irritation.
What is a pterygium?
A pterygium (pronounced te-ri-gi-um,
plural pterygia) is a triangular-shaped
lump of tissue which grows from the
conjunctiva (the thin membrane which
covers the white of the eye) on to the
cornea (the clear central part of the
eye). Pterygia often occur in both eyes,
usually on the side of the eye closer to
the nose. A pterygia is not a cancer.
People sometimes confuse pterygia with
cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of
the lens inside the eye and cannot be
seen easily with the naked eye.
What causes pterygia?
The exact causes of pterygia are not
known, but they are strongly associated
with exposure to ultraviolet radiation
and hot, dry environments. Pterygia are
more common among people who spend a lot
of time outdoors, but anyone can develop
a pterygium.
Are pterygia dangerous?
Pterygia are not dangerous, although
they can look ugly and cause some
discomfort. The main problem with
pterygia is that as they grow on the
cornea they distort it, interfering with
vision. If the pterygium grows on to the
central part of the cornea, it can begin
to block light from entering the eye.
Although a pterygium is not
dangerous, it should be checked to make
sure that it is not something more
serious. If you have any area of tissue
on or around the eyes that changes
rapidly, you should consult an
Ophthalmologist eye specialist
immediately.
How can pterygia be treated?
In cases where the pterygium is not
actively growing on to the cornea,
protecting the eyes from ultraviolet
light often will stabilise its growth.
In many cases, provided it is not
threatening vision and it remains
stable, this may be all that is
required.
In cases where the
pterygium is actively growing on to the
cornea and threatening to distort the
vision, the only effective treatment is
surgery. It is best to have surgery
before the pterygium progresses to the
point where it interferes with vision. |
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