» Pterygium.

• It is a condition in which the conjunctiva degenerates, causing fibrous tissue to grow into the cornea, resulting in a pink or yellow patch of tissue extending into the cornea. It usually starts at the inner corner of the eye, but can also occur at the outer corner of the eye.

» Causes of pterygium.

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight: This is the most important factor, especially for those who work outdoors or are regularly exposed to sunlight.
• Wind, dust and smoke: cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes.
• Pollution and chemicals: Long-term exposure to chemicals or air pollution.
• Dry eyes: Chronic dry eye condition can trigger the development of pterygium.
• Overusing your eyes, such as staring at a computer or phone screen for long periods of time.

» Symptoms of pterygium

• Eye irritation and redness: It feels like there is dust or sand in your eyes.
• Itchy, burning, or watery eyes: especially when exposed to sun, wind, or dust.
• Blurred vision or increased astigmatism: If the pterygium extends into the cornea, it may pull on it, causing the corneal curvature to change.
• The beauty of the eyes is reduced: because there is a sheet of flesh protruding onto the pupil.

» Treatment and prevention of pterygium

• Pterygium is a non-blinding condition if treated properly. However, if left untreated and it spreads to obstruct the pupil, vision can be reduced.

» There are several treatments for pterygium depending on the severity of the symptoms.

• Using eye drops: In the early stages, when irritation is still present, your doctor will prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. However, these drops cannot completely eliminate pterygium.
• Surgery: This is the only way to completely remove the pterygium. Your doctor will consider surgery if the pterygium has the following symptoms:
  • Spread into the cornea and begin to affect vision.
  • There is chronic irritation that does not improve with medication.
  • There is chronic irritation that does not improve with medication.
  • Affecting beauty.
  • Pterygium surgery is a minor operation that does not take long and allows patients to return home immediately. After surgery, the wound should be well cared for to prevent recurrence. Modern surgery has resulted in a lower chance of recurrence than 1%.

» Pterygium prevention

• The best way is to avoid the following risk factors:
  • Wear sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that can block 100% of UV rays when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
  • Protect your eyes from wind and dust: Wear goggles or a wide-brimmed hat to reduce exposure to wind and dust.
  • Rest your eyes: If you have to work in front of a screen for long periods of time, you should rest your eyes periodically.

For more information, please contact the Eye Center, Building 2, 4th Floor. Tel: 0 2530 2556 ext. 2440, 2441.