Pterygium

The main sign of a pterygium is a raised wedge-shaped bump on the surface of your eye.

You may also experience:

• eye redness
• a burning feeling in your eye
• a gritty feeling, as though there is something in your eye
• dryness in your eye
• a change in the power of your glasses.

The biggest risk is to people whose eyes are exposed to a lot of ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, such as surfers.

People whose eyes are exposed to pollen, sand, smoke, chemicals and wind on a regular basis also have a higher risk of developing this condition. This includes farmers, fishers and welders.

You are more likely to get this condition:

• if you live in a sunnier climate
• are aged 40 years or older
• are male.

Usually, a pterygium can be diagnosed by your family doctor or optometrist by examining your eye and eyelids.

Most pterygium cause no problems and don't need treatment. However, it is important to have this monitored. If the growth continues and begins to affect your vision or cause ongoing eye discomfort, you may need treatment.

Medicine

Your eye care provider may recommend artificial tears or eye drops to reduce your discomfort. If the pterygium is inflamed, They may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drops (eg, Acular, Voltaren Optha).

Surgery

Your eye care provider may recommend surgery if your vision is affected or if medicines have not given you enough relief.

The surgery involves removing the pterygium from the sclera (white) and cornea (outer lens) of your eye. The area is then covered with a small graft of your own healthy conjunctiva (surface tissue). 

This is usually performed under local anaesthetic, and takes half an hour. A pad is placed over the eye and you will need transport home.

You shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure, but it's normal for your eyes to feel scratchy for a few days afterwards, and you will need a day or two off work.

You will need to use eye drops for about a month after the surgery to help your eye heal. After surgery, take extra care with wearing protective glasses and a hat with a brim to prevent it returning. The recurrence rate for this procedure is 5%.

Your glasses will need to be upgraded following surgery.

To reduce your chance of getting a pterygium:

• wear UV protective sunglasses when outside
• wear a wide brim hat when outside
• avoid dust and chemical pollutants, and if you can't due to your work, wear the protective eyewear 
• take extra care to protect your eyes if you spend a lot of time on the water or snow.