Pterygiums refer to a thickening of the outer coating of the eye. When left untreated, this coating may thicken and grow over the cornea. It could become red and irritated and eventually block the patient’s vision entirely.
What Does A Pterygium Look Like?
Pterygiums can vary in appearance and look different person to person. If you suspect you have a pterygium, it is important you come in for an eye examination.
Most Pterygiums are described as pinkish or flesh colored tissue that emerges from the inner corner of your eye and grows towards the cornea, eventually impairing your vision.
What Causes A Pterygium?
Pterygiums are usually caused by excessive exposure to wind, sunlight and sand without eye protection. Sometimes pterygiums are hereditary and grow without exposure to the elements.
Sunglasses, goggles, hats and lubrication drops may alleviate discomfort experienced by pterygium growth during early stages and may slow its development. However, you should still come in for a full examination to assess your general eye health.
What Are Symptoms Of A Pterygium?
Common Pterygium Symptoms Include:
- Inflamed Or Swollen Eyes
- Gritty Feeling Like You Have Sand In Your Eyes
- Tired Eyes
- Dry Eyes
- Itchy Eyes
- Red Eyes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have your eyes checked by our trained staff at Pannu Laser & Vision Institute.
What Does It Mean To Have A Pterygium Removed? When Should I Come In To Have It Looked At?
Pterygium Removal is the removal of a thickening of the outer coating (conjunctiva) of the eye that grows onto the cornea. When left untreated, it may become red and irritated, eventually causing visual disturbances and possibly blocking a patient’s vision completely.
If you have a growth on your eye, or have any eye discomfort, it is important to come in and have it examined. Please schedule an appointment with Pannu Laser & Vision Institute as soon as possible. Our staff at Pannu Laser & Vision Institute will examine you and assess your eye health prior to recommending treatment.
If your examination reveals that you have a pterygium, our surgeon will schedule you for pterygium removal.
When should I schedule my appointment?
If you believe you have Pterygium, or just would like your eyes checked, schedule your appointment as soon as possible! Call 954-484-0700 to schedule your appointment with Pannu Laser & Vision Institute located in Fort Lauderdale, Weston, Davie, and Boca Raton.
