A pterygium is a growth that develops from the conjunctiva, over the cornea . They are often wedge-shaped and can be located on any part of the eye. The growths are typically benign or noncancerous but may significantly interfere with your vision if not treated.
There are a few explanations as for why they develop such as the excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Individuals that live in sunny climates seem to develop them more often.
Other external elements have been thought to affect how these growths develop on individuals that live in certain areas. These include but not limited to:
- Pollen
- Sand
- Smoke
- Wind
Pterygium growths may not always have symptoms, but when they do, they are typically mild. Common symptoms include:
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Irritation
- Burning sensation
- Itchiness
- Foreign Body Sensation (feeling of something in the eye)
If a pterygium grows large enough to cover part of the cornea, you may experience distorted vision and decrease in your overall vision. It may also feel like you have something in your eye, and contact lens wear can become uncomfortable.
