Frequently asked questions about pterygium
What is pterygium?
Dr. Stuart P. Sondheimer describes pterygium as a growth that develops on the surface of the eye. This benign growth can become problematic, not only in appearance, but when it obscures vision or causes vision to be blurry.
What causes pterygium?
It is believed that exposure to excessive amounts of UV light increases one’s risk to developing pterygium. Patients who have careers that require exposure to sunlight, such as farmers or construction workers, or patients in the areas of New Zealand where ozone layer-depletion has been found, are patients who often experience cases of pterygium. It is seen in males more than females, and is common in patients who are 40 years of age or older.
What are the signs of pterygium?
Before the condition develops, it starts as a thickening and redness in the corner of the eye. The growth often extends across the eye’s surface toward the iris, and patients may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Gritty feeling
- Itching
- Dryness
- Blurred vision
- Obscured vision
How does a doctor treat pterygium?
There are various ways to treat this condition, and they are chosen based on the size and severity. In most mild cases, treatment may include the use of prescription eye drops with corticosteroid to reduce redness and inflammation. The doctor may also suggest the use of artificial tears to keep the eyes well lubricated. For more serious issues, patients may need to undergo surgery to remove the pterygium and to regraft the conjunctiva. This procedure is done as an outpatient procedure in approximately thirty minutes with local anesthetics.
Request an appointment with Dr. Stuart P. Sondheimer today!
If you live in the area of Skokie, IL and require an evaluation with an eye physician, we encourage you to book an appointment. The practice is located at 9150 Crawford Avenue, Suite 201 and can be reached by phone at (847) 677-2794.
