Pterygium corresponds to the growth of tissue in the eye that can cause blurred vision, burning in the eye, photophobia and difficulty in seeing, for example, especially when the tissue grows a lot and ends up covering the pupil.
Pterygium occurs more frequently in men from 20 years and can happen due to genetic factors or frequent exposure to sunlight, dust and wind, for example.
The diagnosis must be made by the ophthalmologist and treatment is usually done by monitoring tissue growth and using eye drops to relieve symptoms.
Main symptoms
Most of the time Pterygium does not cause symptoms, but as tissue growth can happen steadily and slowly, it is likely that symptoms such as:
- Itchy and watery eyes; Burning in the eye; Discomfort when opening and closing the eyes; Feeling of sand in the eye; Difficulty in seeing; Photophobia, which corresponds to the greater sensitivity of the eyes to light; Redness in the eyes; Presence of tissue covering the pupil, blurred vision, in more advanced cases.
Although most of the time there is the appearance of pinkish colored tissue in the eyes, some people may have the tissue growing more yellowish, being also indicative of pterygium. Know other causes of yellow spot on the eye.
Pterygium is usually associated with frequent and prolonged exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet radiation, dust and wind, for example, but it can also happen due to genetic factors, especially if there is a history in the pterygium family. The diagnosis of the pterygium is made by the ophthalmologist based on the observation of the symptoms presented by the person
How the treatment is done
The treatment for pterygium is done with the use of analgesic eye drops or lubricants that help to relieve symptoms. In addition, it is important to wear suitable sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, as well as hats or caps, as this way it is possible to prevent the sun's ultraviolet light, dust or wind from reaching the eyes and causing symptoms. Know the main types of eye drops.
In addition, the ophthalmologist usually monitors the growth of the pterygium, in order to indicate surgery if the person's vision is compromised.
Surgery for Pterygium
Pterygium surgery is indicated when the tissue grows excessively and, in addition to aesthetic discomfort, the person's visual capacity is impaired.
This surgery is done under local anesthesia, lasts about 30 minutes and consists of the removal of excess tissue followed by a conjunctiva transplant to cover the lesion site.
Despite promoting the removal of excess tissue, it is important that eye care is adopted, such as wearing caps and sunglasses, as the pterygium may return.
