Pterygium is a non-cancerous growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea, often caused by prolonged UV exposure, dust, or wind. It can lead to irritation, redness, and visual disturbances if untreated. Early monitoring, protective eyewear, and timely surgical intervention help prevent complications and preserve vision.
Pterygium is classified mainly into two types: Primary develops slowly from repeated sun exposure and environmental factors. Recurrent appears after surgical removal, often more aggressive. Recognizing the type helps ophthalmologists choose effective treatment, including surgical excision or topical management, ensuring better outcomes and minimizing recurrence risks.
Pterygium is mainly caused by long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure, especially in people who spend extended time outdoors. Other factors include chronic eye irritation, dry and dusty environments, wind, smoke, and pollution. Lack of protective eyewear, increasing age, and a genetic tendency can also contribute to the development of pterygium.
Symptoms include redness, irritation, burning, dryness, and foreign body sensation. Vision may be affected if growth encroaches on the cornea. Patients often report light sensitivity and cosmetic concerns, prompting timely ophthalmic consultation for effective monitoring and treatment.
Diagnosis of pterygium is primarily clinical, based on a thorough eye examination. An ophthalmologist observes the growth of fleshy, triangular tissue extending from the conjunctiva onto the cornea. The examination may include visual acuity tests, slit-lamp microscopy to assess size, thickness, and vascularization, and evaluation for irritation or vision obstruction. Imaging is rarely needed unless complications are suspected.
Caused by UV exposure, dust, wind, and genetic predisposition, pterygium can be managed with protective measures, lubricating drops, or surgical excision in advanced cases. Recurrence prevention strategies, such as grafting and anti-inflammatory medications, improve long-term outcomes and patient comfort.
Key signs that indicate the need for immediate medical evaluation include severe symptoms or sudden changes.
Ongoing redness may indicate pterygium progression requiring early evaluation to prevent corneal involvement and visual disturbances.
Any decrease in vision suggests corneal encroachment, demanding prompt ophthalmic assessment for timely intervention and protection.
Continuous irritation or dryness can signal pterygium growth or inflammation, needing medical attention for relief and prevention.
Fast enlargement of the eye growth increases risk of visual impairment and requires immediate specialist evaluation.
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that diagnoses and treats shoulder issues, faster recovery, reduced...
An omphalocele repair assist device helps surgeons safely manage and support abdominal organs during corrective surgery...
Epidural Hematoma Surgery is an emergency neurosurgical procedure performed to remove blood clot formation between the...
Expert surgical solutions for biliary tract conditions, ensuring optimal care and improved digestive health. Trust our...
Get expert help at every step from inquiry to consultation to hospital booking. Your care journey, simplified and supported.
Free OPD Consultation
Free Pick & Drop Services
Cashless Mediclaim Assistance
Free Medical Counseling
30,000+ Verified Specialists
NABH Accredited Hospitals
NABL Accredited Labs
24/7 Care Support
Second Opinion from Experts
Transparent Cost Estimates
mediSuggest offers easy access to specialists, transparent assistance, and dependable support for safe, effective procedures.
Connect with experienced ophthalmologists providing accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and continuous follow-up for optimal pterygium management.
Schedule consultations and procedures quickly, reducing wait times and ensuring prompt medical attention for your eye health.
Utilize modern devices for early detection and monitoring, preventing growth progression and preserving vision.
Receive recommendations tailored to growth severity, symptoms, and lifestyle for effective management and long-term eye health.
Benefit from guidance through every stage of treatment, reducing anxiety and ensuring proper post-operative care.
Access cost-effective diagnostic tests and treatment options without compromising quality, making eye care accessible for everyone.
mediSuggest made my entire journey simple and safe, from pre-surgery tests to post-surgery follow-up.
Kavita Joshi Pterygium Surgery
Thanks to the expert surgeon and attentive care team, my recovery was comfortable, and I can see clearly now.
Sunita Nair Pterygium Surgery
The surgical care and post-operative guidance provided by mediSuggest were highly professional and reassuring.
Vikram Choudhary Pterygium Surgery
From consultation to recovery, the staff supported me at every step. The results were beyond my expectations.
Megha Rao Pterygium Surgery
The doctors explained everything thoroughly, and the mediSuggest team ensured my treatment was seamless and stress-free.
Rakesh Sharma Pterygium Surgery
From diagnosis to discharge, mediSuggest guided me with care and expertise. The surgery went smoothly, and my vision improved remarkably.
Anita Iyer Pterygium Surgery
Pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva that extends onto the cornea. It is commonly caused by prolonged UV exposure, dust, wind, dry eyes, or genetic susceptibility, often affecting outdoor workers.
Yes, if the growth extends over the cornea and reaches the visual axis, it can distort vision, cause astigmatism, or reduce clarity. Early treatment prevents serious vision impairment.
Symptoms include redness, irritation, a gritty feeling, tearing, blurred vision, and a visible triangular tissue on the white of the eye. Discomfort worsens in dusty or sunny environments.
Diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive eye exam, including slit-lamp evaluation. Doctors examine the growth’s size, location, vascularity, and effect on vision to determine treatment needs.
Treatment includes lubricating eye drops for mild cases, anti-inflammatory drops for irritation, and surgical removal for progressive growth affecting vision or causing discomfort. Post-surgery care prevents recurrence.
