What is Pterygium?

Description of the disease

Pterygium is the growth of transparent tissue on the white of the eye, which can expand and visibly change the shape of the eye. It is most common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in hot climates.

Classification

• Simple pterygium
• Pterygium with an asthenic component
• Differentiated pterygium

Symptoms

The main symptoms include the appearance of growth on the white of the eye, a feeling of grit or foreign body in the eye, redness and itching in the area of localization.

Causes

The main cause of pterygium is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays on the eyes, especially in direct contact with sand, dust, and wind.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is carried out by an ophthalmologist during an eye examination and may include additional methods such as the use of polished contact lenses and tonometry.

Treatment

In severe cases, surgical removal of pterygium is required. In milder cases, drug therapy may be used.

Prevention

For the prevention of pterygium, it is recommended to wear protective goggles and hats, as well as to avoid prolonged exposure to the open sun.

Physician

Pterygium is treated by an ophthalmologist.