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Pterygium

What is a Pterygium? 

  • A pterygium is a benign or non-cancerous overgrowth of the conjunctiva. It can appear as a wedge-shaped growth of thickened tissue covering the white part of the eye.
  • It starts on the clear conjunctiva tissue of the eye (the thin layer that covers the white part of the eye or sclera) and can spread to the cornea.


Symptoms of Pterygium?

The symptoms of pterygium can vary depending on the size and severity of the growth. Common symptoms include:

  • Eye Irritation
  • Redness
  • Blurred or Distorted Vision
  • Foreign Body Sensation
  • Cosmetic Concerns
  • Tearing
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Treatment of Pterygium?

Treatment options for pterygium depend on the severity of symptoms, the impact on vision, and the patient's comfort. Here are some common approaches:

  • Conservative Management: For mild cases with minimal symptoms, using lubricating eye drops, wearing sunglasses with UV protection, and avoiding irritants like dust and wind can help manage symptoms and slow down pterygium growth.
  • Medications: Sometimes, your eye care provider may prescribe medications to alleviate inflammation and discomfort associated with the pterygium.
  • Surgical Removal: If the pterygium is causing significant discomfort, visual disturbances, or cosmetic concerns, surgical removal might be recommended. The surgery is typically a day procedure and involves removing the abnormal tissue. Various techniques can be used, most commonly conjunctival autografting, where healthy tissue is transplanted to the area after pterygium removal to prevent recurrence.
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