Overview
A pterygium is a fleshy, wing-shaped growth of the surface tissue of the eye that slowly creeps from the corner onto the clear front of the eye. It is common in people who spend long hours outdoors in sun, wind and dust — very relevant to India's climate and outdoor work. Small ones cause only mild redness and dryness. Larger ones can pull on the vision or grow over the pupil, and are then removed by a simple surgery; sunglasses help prevent growth.
Symptoms
- A fleshy pink growth on the white of the eye, usually near the nose
- Redness and a gritty, dry feeling
- Irritation that worsens in sun, wind and dust
- A growth slowly extending toward the centre of the eye
- Blurred vision if it reaches the cornea
When to see a doctor
See an eye doctor if the growth spreads toward the centre of the eye, affects vision, or is often red and irritated.
Causes
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, wind and dust; most common in people who work or spend time outdoors.