A pterygium (pronounced teh-RIJ-ee-um) is a common eye condition that affects the surface of the eye, especially in people who spend a lot of time outdoors. Often referred to as “surfer’s eye,” pterygium is generally non-cancerous but can cause discomfort, vision interference, and cosmetic concerns if left untreated.
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we provide accurate diagnosis and individualised treatment for pterygium at every stage. This article explores what a pterygium is, its causes, symptoms, how it progresses, and when to seek expert care.
What is Pterygium?
A pterygium is a wedge-shaped growth of fibrovascular tissue that starts on the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white of the eye) and gradually extends onto the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). It often develops on the side closest to the nose but can appear on either side.
A pterygium can continue to grow and distort the eye’s surface, potentially interfering with vision if it extends far enough across the cornea. These lesions are generally benign, but not always.
Pterygium Causes
The exact cause of pterygium isn’t fully understood, but several environmental factors are known to contribute to its development. These include:
- Prolonged exposure to UV light (sunlight)
- Dust, wind, and dry environments
- Chronic eye irritation or inflammation
- A history of outdoor work or water sports
Pterygium is more common in people living near the equator, and especially those who spend significant time outdoors without adequate eye protection.
Pterygium Symptoms
In the early stages, pterygium may cause no symptoms beyond a visible raised or reddish area on the white of the eye—this is known as early stage pterygium. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Redness and inflammation in the affected eye
- A foreign body sensation, like something is in the eye
- Dryness, itching, or burning
- Blurred or distorted vision if the growth reaches the cornea
- Cosmetic concerns due to its appearance
A pterygium may grow slowly over months or years, and in some cases, it can stabilise or even regress. However, progressive growth can eventually lead to visual interference, especially if left untreated.
How is Pterygium Diagnosed?
Pterygium Diagnosis at Vision Clinic Sydney
Diagnosing pterygium is typically straightforward during a comprehensive eye examination. At Vision Clinic Sydney, our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess not just the presence of pterygium, but its size, depth, and potential impact on your cornea and vision.
This includes:
- Slit-lamp biomicroscopy to examine the growth in detail
- Anterior segment imaging to assess corneal involvement
- Corneal topography if there’s suspected astigmatism or visual distortion
- Evaluation of tear film quality to assess irritation and dryness
These technologies allow us to monitor pterygium growth over time and determine the most appropriate management strategy for your specific case.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Pterygium doesn’t always require immediate treatment, especially in early stages. However, you should see an eye care professional if you notice:
- Increasing redness, irritation, or discomfort
- Any growth extending toward your cornea
- Changes in vision such as blurriness or astigmatism
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Cosmetic concerns
If a pterygium is actively growing or causing symptoms, treatment options may include lubricating eye drops, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgical removal. At Vision Clinic Sydney, we tailor our approach based on the severity, symptoms, and lifestyle needs of each patient.
Pterygium Treatment Options
The treatment approach for pterygium depends on the severity of symptoms, extent of the growth, and whether it is affecting your vision or comfort. At Vision Clinic Sydney, we offer a range of options from conservative management to advanced surgical solutions.
Non-Surgical Management (for mild or early stage pterygium):
- Lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness and irritation
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce redness and inflammation
- UV protection (e.g. wraparound sunglasses) to prevent progression
- Monitoring with regular check-ups to assess changes in size or symptoms
These methods are typically recommended for patients with early stage pterygium who are not yet experiencing visual distortion or significant discomfort
Surgical Treatment (for progressive or symptomatic pterygium):
Surgery may be advised when the pterygium:
- Grows significantly toward the central cornea
- Causes visual interference or astigmatism
- Leads to chronic irritation or inflammation
- Becomes cosmetically concerning to the patient
At Vision Clinic Sydney, pterygium surgery involves removing the growth and often placing a conjunctival graft(tissue from another part of the eye) to reduce the risk of recurrence. We use microsurgical techniques to promote fast recovery and achieve excellent cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Post-surgery care includes the use of anti-inflammatory drops and follow-up assessments to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.
How To Book an Assessment
To request an appointment or if you have an enquiry, please contact us via the following ways:
- Call or message us: +612 9222 9188
- Email us: reception@visionclinicsydney.com.au
- Book online via our website
FAQs
What is a pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign growth of tissue on the white part of the eye that can extend onto the cornea. Though often harmless at first, it can lead to discomfort or vision issues if it progresses.
What causes pterygium?
Pterygium causes are largely linked to UV exposure, dust, wind, and chronic dryness or irritation. It is more common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without eye protection.
What are the symptoms of pterygium?
Symptoms can include redness, dryness, a gritty sensation, and in advanced cases, blurred vision. Some patients may also be bothered by the appearance of the growth on the eye.
What does early stage pterygium look like?
In the early stages, a pterygium appears as a small, triangular or raised spot on the white of the eye. It may be slightly pink or red but generally doesn’t cause discomfort right away.
When does pterygium require surgery?
Surgery is typically recommended if the pterygium grows toward the central cornea, causes significant discomfort, leads to vision problems, or creates cosmetic concerns. The decision is based on size, growth pattern, and symptoms.
General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.
