Contents
What is Pterygium and How Is It Connected to Your Eye Health?
Pterygium is an eye condition that affects many people, especially those in sunny climates and who engage in outdoor activities. It can cause dryness, irritation, and even cause vision problems if left untreated. With awareness and proper care, you can protect your eyes from pterygium and maintain healthier vision.
What Is Pterygium?
Pterygium is a growth on the surface of the eye, usually on the white part, that can be pink or red in colour. Pterygia typically grows on the side of the eye closest to the nose and can spread across the surface of the eye towards the centre. While pterygia is often benign, it can, if left untreated, cause serious sight problems.
What Causes Pterygium?
The exact cause of pterygium is not always known but is commonly associated with sun exposure and outdoor activities that increase exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Other risk factors include dry, dusty and windy climates. Prolonged contact lens use can also increase the risk of developing pterygium.
How Can You Prevent Pterygium?
The best way to prevent pterygium is to protect your eyes from intense UV light. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection is essential for people at risk of developing pterygium. It also helps to wear wide-brimmed hats and other protective clothing when outside in the sun.
How Is Pterygium Treated?
In most cases, pterygium is harmless and can be treated with lubricating eye drops, ointment, or glasses. If the growth causes irritation or obstruction of vision, then surgery may be recommended. Surgery is usually done under local anaesthetic and will remove the pterygium and any associated scar tissue. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used to remove the growth.
Maintain Good Eye Health with Regular Check-Ups
If you are at risk of developing pterygium, it is important to have regular eye check-ups so that the condition can be monitored. Early detection and treatment can help keep your eyes healthy and free from pterygium.
In summary, pterygium is a growth on the surface of the eye that is often associated with sun exposure and outdoor activities. The best way to prevent pterygium is to protect your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses and other protective clothing. If the growth causes irritation or vision problems, then surgery or radiation may be needed. Regular eye check-ups are important for maintaining good eye health and detecting any problems early.