A pterygium is an abnormal growth of tissue that appears in the corner of the eye and, over time, can invade the cornea. It is a common and usually benign condition, but it can be uncomfortable and cause vision problems if left untreated. It develops from a degeneration of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the eye and the sclera. For a general introduction, you can also read our article on pterygium, the tissue that invades the eye.
Symptoms and risk factors
Symptoms of pterygium include itching, redness, a foreign-body sensation in the eye, blurred vision, and eye pain. While it can be triggered by environmental factors such as sun, wind, and dust exposure, it has also been linked to several risk factors, including UV radiation, smoking, poor nutrition, and dry eye.
Treatment
Treatment for pterygium depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s symptoms. Mild cases may only require lubricating ointments and avoiding triggers. In more severe cases, or when vision is affected, surgery may be needed to remove the abnormal tissue growth.
Pterygium surgery is performed under local anesthesia and is usually an outpatient procedure. During the operation, the surgeon removes the abnormal tissue and repairs the area with a conjunctival graft, using a small piece of the patient’s own conjunctiva to replace the damaged tissue. Learn about all the eye surgeries we offer in Roatán.
Recovery
After surgery, it is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for a fast, complication-free recovery. A course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drops is usually prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. The patient should also avoid sun exposure and wear sunglasses during recovery.
Recovery after pterygium surgery generally takes about a week. During this time, the patient may feel some discomfort, redness, and blurred vision, but these symptoms usually fade quickly and vision improves significantly. Following the surgeon’s guidance and attending follow-up visits are key to an optimal recovery.
Protect your vision
If you notice a growth, persistent redness, or irritation in your eyes, don’t wait for it to grow. At Dr. Reichmann’s clinic in Roatán we perform a complete eye exam and offer all our eye care services. Book your appointment today and protect your vision.