Pterygium

Pterygium Treatment from Our Kissimmee, FL, Ophthalmology Practice

Pterygium is another name for surfer’s eye.  This benign eye growth is common in areas that enjoy a sunny climate.  Our Kissimmee eye doctor notes that those who work outdoors face increased risk for developing eye problems linked to this disorder.  Diagnosed patients have access to several treatment options at our Eye Care Specialists of Florida ophthalmology practice.

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What Is a Pterygium?

A pterygium is a collection of fleshy tissue that arises in the eye.  While a small pterygium usually causes no problems, those large enough to cover part of the cornea can affect vision.  Our Kissimmee ophthalmologist is able to diagnose this condition during a slit-lamp exam. In rare cases, the growth must be excised for a pathologist’s examination.

Some surfer's eye growths originate as a pinguecula, raised tissue that often appears on the side of the affected eye.  Regardless of its origin, a pterygium results from exposure to a combination of sunlight, wind, and dust.

The resulting eye symptoms caused by a pterygium range greatly in severity.  These are the ones our doctors sees most frequently:

  • A feeling that a foreign body is stuck in an eye
  • An itchy, dry sensation in the eye
  • Blurred vision
  • A yellowish spot or bump on the white of an eye
  • Redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, the clear lining of the inner eyelids

Treatment from Our Ophthalmology Practice

When a pterygium causes discomfort or affects vision, it is time to seek professional treatment from an ophthalmology practice.  Our doctor can suggest over-the-counter or prescription medication in drop, gel, or ointment form to treat discomfort, swelling, and redness.

However, the only way to eradicate this type of growth is to remove it surgically.  This is often the preferred treatment alternative for patients who suffer from severe and persistent eye irritation, cannot move the affected eye normally, are experiencing increasing size of the growth, or are having vision problems.  In some cases, removal is indicated when the appearance of the eye bothers the patient.

Self-care such as sunglasses, use of artificial tears, and wearing goggles or glasses to protect against dust helps some individuals avoiding getting more of these growths.

Schedule an Exam with Our Ophthalmologist in Kissimmee

At Eye Care Specialists of Florida, we provide a full range of ophthalmology services in Kissimmee.  We offer patients compassionate, comfortable care using the latest technology and techniques to manage eye diseases and perform surgery.  Vision is precious.  Help protect yours by calling us today at (407) 483-0328 to schedule an exam with our ophthalmologist, Dr. Saira Choudhri.

Contact us to request an appointment today.

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Monday
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Tuesday
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Wednesday
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Thursday
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Friday
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