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| What is pterygium? | Symptoms | Treatment |
A pterygium is a wing-shaped pinkish growth made up of thickened conjunctiva tissue located on either side of the cornea. These growths, which can be seen with the naked eye, are usually found on the side of the eye nearest the nose. The growth has a triangular-shaped body with a rounded apical "head" that moves toward the cornea.
Symptoms are variable. There may be some discomfort such as a pricking or gritty sensation. There may also be recurrent redness. When the growth gets to the cornea, it can affect a person's vision.
If you are experiencing some of the symptoms described here, it does not necessarily mean you have pterygium. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, you should contact your eye doctor for a complete exam. Click here for information on emergency or immediate care.
The growth must be removed if it affects vision. This is done in a hospital under general or local anaesthetic. It can't be removed with laser surgery. Post-operatively, drops or an ointment will be prescribed. The eye must be protected from wind and bright sunlight. A pterygium is likely to recur after it is removed. Eye drops or radio therapy may be used to prevent recurrence.
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