Australia has one of the highest rates of pterygium in the world, and for good reason: high UV exposure, outdoor lifestyles, and dry and dusty environments are the primary risk factors. If you have noticed a fleshy or triangular growth on the white of your eye — particularly on the inner corner near your nose — it may be a pterygium, and it warrants monitoring by an optometrist.
What Is a Pterygium?
A pterygium (pronounced ter-IJ-ee-um) is a benign but progressive growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea. It typically begins on the nasal (inner) side of the eye and grows slowly toward the pupil. If it reaches the centre of the cornea, it can distort vision significantly and may need surgical removal.
It is sometimes called “surfer's eye” because of its association with UV and wind exposure, but it affects farmers, construction workers, and anyone who spends significant time outdoors in bright Australian conditions.
Symptoms
- A visible triangular or wedge-shaped growth on the white of the eye
- Redness and irritation, particularly in dusty or windy conditions
- A foreign body sensation (as if something is in the eye)
- Induced astigmatism and blurred vision as the growth approaches the cornea
- Cosmetic concern due to the visible growth
Monitoring and Treatment
At Prime Optometrists Auburn, we assess pterygium using our slit lamp and document its size and position with each visit. Most pterygium grow very slowly and require only:
- Regular monitoring (typically annually)
- Lubricating eye drops to manage redness and irritation
- Quality UV-blocking sunglasses to slow progression
Surgical removal (by an ophthalmologist) is recommended when:
- The pterygium approaches or reaches the pupil
- It is inducing significant astigmatism affecting vision
- Symptoms are severe and unmanageable with lubricants
- Cosmetic impact is significant enough to affect quality of life
Protecting Yourself
- Wear wraparound sunglasses with UV400 protection whenever outdoors
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat
- Use lubricating eye drops in dry or windy conditions
- Have your eyes examined annually so progression is documented
If you have noticed a growth on your eye or have any of the symptoms described above, book an eye examination at Prime Optometrists Auburn. We are at 43 Auburn Road, Auburn NSW 2144. (02) 9761 0005.