Symptoms of a pterygium:
- Tissue growing over the eye
- Irritation
- Redness
- Tearing
Causes of a pterygium:
The exact cause of pterygia isn’t known, but it’s thought to be linked to:
- Long-term exposure to sunlight
- Dry, dusty conditions
- Age: Ptergia is typically found in adults over the age of 30.
Diagnosing a pterygium:
Chances are, you’ll notice a pterygium. Your eye doctor can also diagnose it during a routine eye exam.
Treatment of a pterygium:
Eye drops or ointment can be used to reduce the irritation caused by a pterygium. If the pterygium grows toward the central cornea, it may need to be removed surgically. Prevention is important. It’s a good idea to protect your eyes with sunglasses if you’ll be in the sun or a dusty, dry environment.
