Have you noticed a fleshy growth on your eye that’s starting to creep onto the colored part? It might be pterygium, a common eye condition that many people experience. While often benign, it’s important to understand how it can affect your vision and when it’s time to seek professional help from an eye doctor in Los Angeles.

What Is Pterygium?

Pterygium is a non-cancerous, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye (sclera) and lines the inside of the eyelids. Often referred to as “surfer’s eye,” this growth can gradually extend onto the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors are believed to contribute to the development of pterygium:

• UV light exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is considered a primary risk factor.
• Dry, dusty, or windy environments: These conditions can irritate the eyes, potentially contributing to pterygium development.
• Chronic eye irritation: Ongoing irritation from various sources may play a role.
• Outdoor occupations or hobbies: Individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors are more susceptible.

Symptoms of Pterygium

The symptoms of pterygium and treatment can differ from person to person, largely depending on the size and how far it has progressed. Here’s a closer look at the common symptoms you might encounter:

• Redness and inflammation of the eye: The affected area might appear bloodshot or irritated. This can come and go or be more persistent, especially during flare-ups.
• Eye irritation, a burning sensation, or dryness: Many individuals describe a gritty or uncomfortable feeling in their eye. It might feel dry, itchy, or like something is bothering the surface.
• A feeling like there’s a foreign body in your eye: Even if the growth is smooth, you might have the sensation that there’s sand or something stuck in your eye, causing persistent discomfort.
• Blurred or distorted vision if the growth encroaches onto the cornea: This is a more significant symptom that arises when the pterygium starts to grow onto the clear front surface of the eye (the cornea). This irregular growth can change the shape of the cornea, leading to astigmatism and consequently, blurry or distorted vision. This is a key reason why it’s important to monitor any growth and consult an eye doctor in Los Angeles if you notice visual changes.
• A visible piece of tissue on the white of your eye that may gradually get larger: This is often the most noticeable sign. The growth typically starts on the white part (sclera) near the inner or outer corner of the eye and can slowly extend towards the cornea. You might observe its size increasing over time.

It’s important to note that not everyone with pterygium will experience all of these symptoms. Some might only notice the visible growth without significant discomfort or vision changes initially. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially changes in your vision, it’s wise to seek advice from an eye care clinic. They can properly diagnose your condition and discuss appropriate pterygium symptoms and treatment options.

Also Read: Can Pterygium Affect Your Vision? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Can Pterygium Affect Your Vision?

The important question many people have is, does pterygium cause vision loss? In many mild cases, a small pterygium may not significantly impact vision, causing only minor irritation. However, as it progresses, particularly when it grows onto the cornea, it can indeed lead to vision problems.

In Progressive Cases

• Astigmatism or blurred vision: When the pterygium grows onto the cornea, it can change the cornea’s curvature, leading to astigmatism and blurry vision.
• Obstruction of the visual axis: If left untreated and the growth becomes large enough, it can directly block your line of sight.
• Impact on contact lens wearers: Even a small pterygium can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even impossible due to irritation and improper fit.

If you are in areas like Newport Beach, Beverly Hills, or Glendale, and are experiencing these issues, seeking out the best eye doctor for pterygium in Los Angeles or a reputable clinic in your vicinity is essential for proper diagnosis and management.

When to See an Eye Doctor

It’s important to consult an eye care professional if you notice any of the following:

• The growth on your eye is increasing in size.
• You experience any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or distortion.
• You have persistent redness, irritation, or dry eye.
• The appearance of the growth is cosmetically concerning to you or affects your confidence.
• You are simply unsure if the growth is pterygium or something else.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

During an eye exam, your eye doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, which typically includes:

• Comprehensive Eye Exam: This involves a general assessment of your eye health and vision.
• Slit-lamp examination: A specialized microscope with a bright light is used to examine the front structures of your eye in detail, allowing the doctor to assess the size and progression of the pterygium.

Your doctor will then determine whether monitoring the growth is sufficient or if treatment is necessary. They will also perform a differential diagnosis to rule out other conditions like pinguecula (a yellowish raised area on the conjunctiva), conjunctival tumors, or other lesions.

Treatment Options

The approach to pterygium symptoms and treatment depends on the severity of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments

For mild cases, treatment often focuses on relieving symptoms:

• Lubricating eye drops: To alleviate dryness and irritation.
• Anti-inflammatory drops: In some cases, steroid eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and redness.
• UV-blocking sunglasses and protective eyewear: To prevent further growth and protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.

Surgical Removal

Pterygium removal may be recommended when:

• Vision is significantly affected.
• The growth is aggressively progressing.
• There is persistent discomfort that doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatments.
• The appearance of the pterygium is cosmetically bothersome to the patient.

The surgical procedure is typically an outpatient one with a low risk of complications. In some cases, a conjunctival graft (a small piece of tissue taken from another part of your eye) may be used to cover the surgical area, which can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

Preventing Pterygium

While you can’t always prevent it, you can lower your risk of pterygium by taking these easy steps:

• Wear wraparound sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outside.
• Use artificial tears regularly, especially if you’re in dry or windy environments.
• Try to avoid being in direct sun, dust, and wind for long periods.
• Wear a hat with a brim for extra shade when you’re outdoors.

These simple habits can help shield your eyes and reduce the chances of developing “surfer’s eye.” If you have any concerns, an eye doctor in Los Angeles or your local eye care clinic near me can offer more personalized advice

Conclusion

Pterygium is a common eye condition that, while often harmless, can sometimes lead to vision problems. Understanding the pterygium symptoms and treatment options is crucial for maintaining good eye health. If you notice any unusual growth on your eye or changes in your vision, don’t hesitate to schedule an eye exam.

Consulting with Soroudi Advanced LASIK and Eye Centers, an eye doctor in Los Angeles, is the best way to determine the right course of action and ensure your vision is protected.