Pterygium in Lake Worth, FL

A pterygium is a benign tumor that occurs on the conjunctiva or the thin, transparent coating that protects and provides moisture to the white part of your eye or the sclera. This growth looks pinkish and triangular-shaped and usually appears in the inner corner of your eye. Over time, if not treated, it may grow into the cornea or the front part of your eye. The cornea is responsible for refracting light, and it enables you to see clearly, so if this starts to happen, you may require treatment. You can develop this condition in one or both of your eyes. For patients with multiple growths, the condition is known as pterygia. Without proper treatment, a pterygium can damage your vision; however, we can monitor your ocular health and suggest the best treatments for pterygium at our Lake Worth, FL, eye care practice. Please schedule an appointment at Palm Beach Eye Center to learn more and receive a personalized treatment plan.

Symptoms of a pterygium typically vary from person to person. Some individuals will have no symptoms before a pterygium develops. When symptoms do develop, they can range from mild to severe. Pterygium symptoms can include:

• Eye redness and inflammation
• Dry, burning, or itchy eyes
• Teary eyes
• The feeling of having grit or sand in your eye
• Watery eyes
• Small, raised pink growth on the affected eye

A pterygium is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which is why it is commonly found in people who spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny climates. Chronic dry eye can also create an environment conducive to the formation of a pterygium. Understanding these causes can help in taking preventive measures for this condition. While pterygium can lead to vision issues if left untreated, Palm Beach Eye Center offers personalized treatment plans to asses this condition.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing pterygium, which is a benign growth on the conjunctiva. Environmental conditions such as living in coastal areas with high exposure to wind, sand, and dust can also contribute to the development of pterygium. Additionally, people with a genetic predisposition or pre-existing dry eye conditions are more susceptible to this eye condition. If you have one or more pterygium risk factors, it is important to speak with your ophthalmologist to ensure you remain in optimal eye health.

Commonly known as “surfer’s eye,” pterygia happen to patients who live in places with lots of sand and dirt, wind, and excess sunlight or UV rays that intensify on the water. Pterygium symptoms include stinging, itchiness, dry eyes, or foreign body sensation. To diagnose the issue, our ophthalmologists perform an eye exam, digital imaging, a visual acuity test, or corneal mapping during your consultation. These assessments give us a full perspective of your condition and allow us to provide a surfer's eye treatment in Lake Worth, FL, that aligns with your needs.

Your personalized treatment plan will depend on how severe your condition is. Over-the-counter re-wetting drops or artificial tears may be recommended for patients with a more mild condition. For moderate conditions, a moisturizing solution or corticosteroid eye drops may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms like redness, itchiness, and pain. Patients with more advanced pterygium may require surgery to remove the pterygium, especially for those who experience vision impairment or cosmetic concerns.

How long does it take to recover from pterygium treatment?
Your recovery will vary based on the severity of the pterygium. For more patients, full recovery can take anywhere from several weeks to a month. You will likely be provided antibiotics and steroid stops for the first few months to prevent inflammation and infection.

How often do I need to wear an eye shield after pterygium removal?
It is recommended that you wear your eye shield for two weeks when sleeping following your pterygium treatment in Lake Worth, FL. During your follow-up, any additional care will be addressed.

How long will my vision be blurry after pterygium removal?
Your vision might be blurry for several weeks following your pterygium treatment. This is because the cornea is changing shape, which could result in a change in the prescription of your eye. It can settle on its own, but it is important to keep track of it so that you can make changes in your glasses prescription if needed.

Can pterygium cause blindness?
Pterygium typically does not cause blindness. However, if the growth becomes large enough to extend over the cornea, it can obstruct vision and may lead to significant visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Can pterygium go away on its own?
Pterygium does not typically go away on its own, as it is a growth of tissue on the eye that often persists or even gradually increases over time. While mild cases can sometimes be managed with eye drops to reduce irritation, more advanced pterygia may require surgical removal if they begin to affect vision or cause discomfort. Regular eye check-ups can help monitor its progression and determine the best treatment approach.

Is it possible to prevent pterygium?
Yes, it's possible to reduce the risk of developing a pterygium by protecting your eyes from factors that can trigger it. Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can shield the eyes from sun exposure, which is a key risk factor. Additionally, keeping the eyes well-lubricated with artificial tears can help prevent irritation from dry or dusty environments, further reducing the likelihood of pterygium growth.

Even though pterygia are a benign eye condition, these irregular growths can cause vision concerns and impact your everyday life. We encourage you to schedule an appointment at our Lake Worth, FL, eye care facility to learn more about your treatment options. Our expert South Florida pterygium doctors can design a detailed treatment plan, discuss your insurance coverage, or outline payment plan information. At Palm Beach Eye Center, we look forward to helping you with your eye health and providing relief from pterygium symptoms.