We see things and can express feelings through the “eyes” via the clear glass called the “conjunctiva”. However, if the conjunctiva is damaged, the world you once saw may change and become unhappy.
What are Pinguecula and Pterygium?
- Pinguecula
is an eye condition where normal tissue changes into a benign tumor on the white conjunctiva. It appears as a raised bump or thin yellowish patch, usually found on the white of the eye near the cornea, more often on the nasal side than the temporal side. Pinguecula can grow and invade the cornea. When it invades the cornea, it is called pterygium. - Pterygium
is an eye condition that may develop after pinguecula. It usually appears as a white-yellow or pinkish triangular-shaped tissue growing from the conjunctiva onto the cornea. If the pterygium grows large enough to cover the cornea, it can affect vision and often requires surgical removal.
Harmful light… damages the “eyes”
The main cause of pinguecula and pterygium is ultraviolet (UV) light, which is part of sunlight or light from certain types of lamps. This condition can occur in all ages and genders but is more common in people who work outdoors for long periods, as well as those who frequently spend time or engage in outdoor activities.
Symptoms of “Pinguecula and Pterygium”
In the early stages of “pinguecula and pterygium”, most people have no symptoms and only notice abnormal tissue on the white conjunctiva. However, if inflammation or severity increases, patients may experience eye pain, irritation, itching, burning, tearing, and redness. Sometimes it may feel like there is dust in the eye. Exposure to strong wind, dust, smoke, or sand regularly can worsen the inflammation of pinguecula and pterygium.
If “pterygium” becomes severe and extends near the center of the cornea, it can pull on the cornea, changing its curvature. This may cause blurred vision and possibly astigmatism.
Choose treatment… suitable for the disease stage
Doctors will consider treatment methods appropriate to the severity of the condition.
- If the condition is mild, the growth is small, the patient has no irritation, and vision is normal, treatment may not be necessary. Doctors will advise patients to protect themselves from worsening by strictly shielding their eyes from ultraviolet radiation to prevent the condition from becoming severe and spreading.
- If there is inflammation, irritation, or redness, doctors will recommend using eye drops to reduce inflammation.
- For pterygium where the tissue extends to the center of the cornea and blocks vision, doctors will recommend surgical removal of the pterygium from the conjunctiva and corneal surface. Currently, surgery often involves grafting new tissue, which may be the patient’s own conjunctiva or specially prepared amniotic membrane from the Thai Red Cross, to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Prevention… is always better
Many people need to live outdoors and face sunlight regularly, increasing the risk of pinguecula and pterygium. However, you can reduce the risk by fully protecting yourself as follows:
- Wear a hat and sunglasses with ultraviolet filtering lenses every time you go outdoors. Even without sunlight, wear glasses to protect against wind and dust.
- Avoid air conditioners or fans blowing directly onto your face.
- Avoid environments with dust, smoke, dry air, and wind, as these can irritate, inflame, and redden the eyes easily.
- If you already have pinguecula or pterygium, regularly observe the color, shape, and size of the growth. If there are changes, consult an ophthalmologist promptly.
- Even after pterygium removal, be cautious by avoiding UV light to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Do not assume that declining vision is normal or simply due to age and time. Sometimes your vision problems may have other causes. Regular eye care and check-ups are important. If abnormalities are found, promptly see an ophthalmologist for examination, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
Don’t forget to prioritize “eye” health
so you can see this world brightly and clearly… for a long time
