A pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue with its own blood vessels. If it stays small, it is often a minor problem. However, if it grows big enough to cover a portion of the cornea, it can affect an individual’s vision. An eye exam can determine whether or not treatment is necessary for the condition. Some of these growths begin as a pinguecula, a raised yellowish growth that typically forms on the side of the eye. Both types of growths are associated with a combination of exposure to sunlight, dust, and wind.
Our patients report symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The most common include:
Patients whose eyes feel uncomfortable or whose vision has been affected might need professional eye care to treat a pterygium. Our Windermere ophthalmologist treats redness, swelling, or discomfort with medication. This might include over-the-counter products such as eye drops, eye ointment, or eye gel or prescription drugs.
The only permanent solution to the growth is to remove it surgically. Eye doctors usually advise surgery under these circumstances:
Individuals with a prior pterygium can attempt to avoid getting more by:
Our practice in Windermere offers a full array of vision services for residents of the West Orlando area. Whether you need corrective eyewear or eye care for any of a variety of diseases that could affect your vision, we’re here to help. At Remagin, we perform surgery for eye diseases and other conditions. Make sure you have the best vision possible by calling us today at 407-674-1856 to schedule an exam with our ophthalmologist, Dr. Deepak Raja.
