Pterygium
Pterygium is an elevated growth on the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a clear mucous membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids serving to lubricate, and to prevent microbes from entering the eye. Patients who have Pterygium commonly experience eye irritation, discoloration and excessive tearing. Pterygium is most commonly attributed to sun exposure, and seems to be most prevalent in people who live in tropical climates or in people that spend significant amounts of time being exposed to sunlight. For some people, the growth remains inactive, but for others a pterygium has the potential to distort vision by altering the surface of the cornea and leading to astigmatism. Pterygiums are fed by tiny capillaries that provide blood to the tissue leading to growth and reduced vision. If in the event that the pterygium invades the central cornea – it is surgically removed . For patients who possess Pterygium, eye protection from the: sun, dust and wind is strongly recommended to avoid future irritation. Artificial tears and steroid drops (in some cases) are also helpful in reducing Pterygium symptoms.
