Pinguecula is a noncancerous, yellow-colored growth containing protein, fat, and calcium that develops on the white part of your eye (conjunctiva). While pinguecula may occur in one or both eyes at any age, it is common among middle-aged and older people. Pinguecula generally does not affect the vision, but in some cases, it can impact the tears that protect the eye, causing redness, inflammation, and dryness. Being benign, treatment is rarely required for pinguecula.
Read on to learn when pinguecula needs to be treated and how it can be prevented.
A pinguecula forms when the thin layer of tissue in your conjunctiva changes due to:
Common symptoms of pinguecula are:
Your ophthalmologist will perform the following procedures to diagnose pinguecula:
It includes examining your eye using a slit lamp that contains a light and microscope, giving the ophthalmologist a better and clear view. This exam helps to differentiate a pinguecula from a pterygium (surfer’s eye), both of which have some similar symptoms.
A pterygium also begins as a small growth on the white part of your eye, but it can get bigger to reach the cornea, affecting your vision.
A sample of your conjunctival tissue will be taken for laboratory analysis to determine any other causes that look similar to pinguecula, including:
A pinguecula that is small and barely noticeable is usually not a cause for concern and does not require treatment. However, it can be large enough to cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms, and in such circumstances, treatment is necessary to minimize the feeling of annoyance and discomfort.
Depending on the severity and symptoms of your pinguecula, your ophthalmologist may recommend any of the following treatment options:
Applying a few drops to the affected eye can lubricate it while minimizing irritation and the feeling of the presence of a foreign body in the eye.
Your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroidal eye drops or topical, non-steroid anti-inflammatory ointments to treat redness and swelling in the eye.
It involves placing a wet cloth on the affected eye for up to 20 minutes every two hours to reduce inflammation.
Surgery may be required to remove pinguecula if:
As long-term exposure to outside elements remains a major risk factor, protecting your eyes from such things can help prevent pinguecula.
Though pinguecula is a harmless condition, you must visit an ophthalmologist as soon as you notice any changes in your eyes, like swelling, redness, excessive tears, etc. This will help your eye doctor determine whether it is pinguecula or other condition that requires immediate medical attention.
At Remagin, we offer best-in-class pinguecula treatment to people across Windermere, Orlando, and other surrounding communities of Florida. So, whether you want to treat pinguecula for protecting your eye health or for cosmetic reasons, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our ophthalmologists for pinguecula eye treatment.
