Pterygium (Surfer's Eye): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

The definition of pterygium is a fleshy, triangular growth in the corner of the eye. This article will explore the pterygium causes, pterygium symptoms and pterygium treatments. The main cause of pterygium in the eye is thought to be UV radiation from the sun, as well as environmental factors such as pollen, sand, smoke, wind and dust, found in hot, dry climates. Pterygium is an eye condition that may begin as a pinguecula growth. The symptoms of pterygium include dryness in the eyes, diminished or blurry vision, eye redness and mild eye pain, a raised, wedge-shaped growth on the eye, the feeling of having something in your eye and an itchy, burning sensation in the eye. Pterygium treatment includes eye drops, surgery, topical medication and protecting the eyes from UV light.

What is Pterygium?

Pterygium, or surfer's eye, is a growth of fleshy tissue that covers the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. Pterygium usually grows from the inner corner of the eye, but can also grow from the outer corner, according to Good Vision for Life. Pterygium is a growth that is benign and non-cancerous, but may affect vision if it grows big enough to cover the cornea, the transparent part of the eye that lets in light. Pterygium can start as a pinguecula, a raised, white or yellow growth on the conjunctiva.

We recommend that you see your optometrist to check any unusual growths on your eye.

What is pterygium or surfer's eye?

Pterygium or surfer’s eye is a benign eye growth, white or pinkish looking, usually with visible blood vessels and formed in a triangular shape. A pterygium will extend from the cornea of the eye across the conjunctiva.

Pterygium (Surfer's Eye): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What are the Other Terms for Pterygium?

The other terms for pterygium are surfer's eye or farmer’s eye. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people who are exposed to high levels of UV light from the sun, as well as wind and dust in hot and dry climates, are most likely to get pterygium. As surfers or farmers are known to be regularly exposed to UV radiation and hot, dry climates, they are the type of people or professions most likely to get pterygium, which is where the term surfer’s eye or farmer’s eye originates from.

We recommend that you see your optometrist to check any unusual growths on your eye.

How does Pterygium Develop?

Pterygium or surfer’s eye is thought to develop from prolonged exposure to UV radiation and environmental factors such as wind, dust and sand from dry and hot climates. A pterygium will usually begin to develop as a raised growth on the conjunctiva part of the eye.

How Common is Pterygium?

Pterygium is a common eye condition, affecting around 1 in 100 Australians, according to the Victorian Government’s Better Health Channel. Pterygium is more common in older people and in males. It is estimated that 12% of Australian men over 60 have the condition, according to the Better Health Channel. Pterygium is also more common in those that spend extended periods of time exposed to the sun, as well as wind, dust and hot, dry, environments.

Is Pterygium the Most Common Corneal Disease?

Pterygium may be one of the most common corneal diseases in countries where there is a hot, windy and dry climate, such as Australia. Pterygium is one of the most common corneal diseases in Australia. According to the Victorian Government’s Better Health Channel, approximately every 1 in 100 Australians will develop a pterygium.

What are the Different Pterygium Stages?

There are no definitive stages of pterygium, however, pterygium may look different and show different symptoms depending on the progression of the condition. According to Good Vision for Life, when pterygium first begins to grow in the early stages, symptoms can be painless, but cause mild discomfort such as red and inflamed conjunctiva or an itchy, burning or gritty feeling in the eye. As the condition progresses and moves into its later stages, where the growth has gotten large, pterygium can cause dry eyes, and diminished vision if it covers the conjunctiva.

What are the Causes of Pterygium?

The exact cause of pterygium is not conclusively known, however, it is thought the main cause of pterygium is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. According to Good Vision for Life, environmental factors that are common in hot and dry climates such as pollen, sand, smoke, wind and dust, may also contribute to pterygium. The causes of pterygium are listed below.

Pollen: Pollen and the eye irritation and inflammation it can cause, have been theorised to be a contributing factor in the development of pterygium.
Sand: Sand, and the irritation it can cause the eye, may be a contributing factor to the development of pterygium.
Smoke: Smoke, and the irritation it may cause the eye may contribute to pterygium development.
Wind: Wind and the eye irritation it may cause, can be a contributing cause of pterygium.
Dust: Dust is an environmental factor in hot and dry climates and long term exposure to it is thought to be a contributing cause of pterygium.
Ultraviolet Radiation: UV radiation from the sun is thought to be the most common cause of pterygium.

1. Pollen

Pollen may be a contributing factor to pterygium or surfer’s eye. Pollen is a powder-like substance released by plants. Pollen can be an irritant to those who are prone to allergies and cause symptoms in the eye such as itchiness, scratchy eyes and watery eyes. Pollen and the irritation it causes the eye may be a contributing factor to the development of pterygium.

2. Sand

Sand is thought to contribute to the development of pterygium or surfer’s eye. Sand is the granular material found on beaches, riverbeds and deserts, made of mineral particles. Sand is commonly found in hot and dry outdoor climates, which is an environment that people who develop pterygium tend to be frequently exposed to. Sand and the irritation it can cause the eye is thought to be a possible contributing factor to the development of pterygium.

3. Smoke

Smoke is thought to contribute to the development of pterygium or surfer’s eye. Smoke refers to a gathering of airborne particles, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, according to New York State’s Department of Health. Smoke can be emitted from a range of fire sources, from bush fires, waste fires or wood fires. The irritation smoke causes the eye may contribute to pterygium development.

4. Wind

Wind may be a contributing cause of pterygium or surfer’s eye. Wind refers to the movement of air. Wind is a key environmental factor in hot and dry climates, an environment that people who develop pterygium tend to be frequently exposed to. Wind, especially strong winds and winds that pick up debris, can cause eye irritation and damage. Wind and the irritation it causes the eye is thought to be a contributing factor in the development of pterygium.

5. Dust

Dust is thought to be a contributing factor to the development of pterygium or surfer’s eye. Dust is a gathering of particles made from a variety of material such as bacteria, skin-cells, hair, sand, and dust mites. Dust is an environmental factor common in hot and dry outdoor climates that can cause eye irritation. Exposure to dust may be a contributing cause of pterygium.

6. Ultraviolet Radiation

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is thought to be the most common cause of pterygium, or surfer’s eye. Ultraviolet radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, long-term exposure to UV light can be damaging to the eye, including the surface of the eye and the deeper structures such as the cornea and the lens. The eye damage caused by UV radiation can lead to eye cancers, cataracts, and eye growths, such as pterygium.

What Medical Conditions Cause Pterygium?

There are no medical conditions or pre existing eye conditions that cause pterygium. The main causes of pterygium are thought to be exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and environmental factors such as wind, dust and sand, that are common in dry and hot climates.

What are the Symptoms of Pterygium?

The symptoms of pterygium or surfer's eye, include a dryness in the eyes, diminished or blurry vision, eye redness and mild eye pain, raised, wedge-shaped growth on the eye, the feeling of having something in your eye and an itchy, burning sensation in the eye. The symptoms a person will have with pterygium may depend on how far the condition has progressed. The symptoms of pterygium are listed below.

Dryness: Dry eyes may be a symptom of pterygium if the growth is affecting the way tears cover or lubricate the eye.
Diminished vision: Diminished vision may be a symptom of pterygium that has grown to cover parts of the cornea, blocking the amount of light allowed into the eye.
Redness and mild eye pain: A red or inflamed conjunctiva may be a symptom of pterygium. Mild eye pain may also be a symptom of pterygium, especially if the conjunctiva is irritated or inflamed due to the growth.
A raised, wedge-shaped growth on the surface of the eye: One of the first symptoms of pterygium is a raised growth on the conjunctiva.
The feeling of having something in your eye: The feeling of having something stuck in the eye, or a gritty feeling in the eye, is a symptom of pterygium caused by irritation and inflammation.
Itching or burning sensation in the eye: An itching or burning sensation in the eye is a common symptom of pterygium caused by irritation and inflammation.

1. Dryness

Eye dryness may be a symptom of pterygium or the surfer's eye. Eye dryness or dry eyes, describes a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears to provide adequate lubrication to the eye, leaving the eyes feeling dry. If a person has pterygium, the growth can interfere with the way tears are produced, or how the tears cover the eye, causing dry eyes.

2. Diminished Vision

Diminished vision can be a symptom of pterygium, or surfer’s eye, particularly in the later stages where the growth has become larger. Diminished vision refers to the eye having reduced ability to see clearly. Diminished vision can be a symptom of other medical conditions and should be assessed by a medical professional.

In the case of pterygium, diminished vision will be caused by the growth pulling on the cornea or covering the cornea, in turn affecting the line of vision, according to The Australian Pterygium Centre. The cornea is the clear window at the front of the eye that allows light in. If the cornea is obstructed it may lead to reduced or diminished vision.

3. Redness and Mild Eye Pain

Redness and mild eye pain can be symptoms of pterygium, or surfer’s eye. Redness refers to the eyes appearing red or pink in colour, and displaying signs of inflammation such as swollen conjunctiva and noticeable blood vessels. Pterygium may cause the eyes to appear red, inflamed or swollen, due to the irritation the growth causes. Red or bloodshot eyes, and eye inflammation can be both an early and later symptom of pterygium. Mild eye pain can also be a cause of pterygium or surfer's eye, though it is not as common as other symptoms. Mild eye pain refers to a pain that occurs in or around the eye that is not severe in its intensity. Mild eye pain can occur due to the inflammation and irritation of the pterygium growth. Eye pain from pterygium should not be severe and will usually happen in conjunction with other pterygium symptoms.

If you are experiencing eye pain, it is important to seek medical attention.

4. A Raised, Wedge-Shaped Growth on the Surface of the Eye

A raised, wedge-shaped growth on the surface of the eye is one of the most common symptoms of pterygium or surfer’s eye. A raised growth on the eye describes a growth that is not flush to the surface of the eye, instead standing out or raised above the surface. In the cast of pterygium, the raised growth will look white or pinkish, triangular in shape and will often contain blood vessels.

5. The Feeling of Having Something in your Eye

The feeling of having something in your eye, also referred to as a gritty feeling in the eye, describes a rough, uncomfortable feeling in the eye. The irritation that a pterygium growth causes across the surface of the eye, or the conjunctiva, may lead to the feeling that there is something in the eye and is a common symptom of early pterygium.

6. Itching or Burning Sensation in the Eye

An itching or burning sensation in the eye is a common symptom of pterygium or surfer’s eye. Itching in the eye refers to a sensation of irritation, or the feeling that your eye needs to be scratched. Burning in the eye refers to a hot or stinging feeling in the eye. The irritation that a pterygium growth causes across the surface of the eye, or the conjunctiva, may lead to itching, burning eyes and is a common symptom of early pterygium.

When Do Pterygium Symptoms Usually Occur?

Pterygium, or surfer’s eye symptoms, can occur at any stage of the condition, but are more common as the growth progresses. Early symptoms may be painless and mild, like eye irritation and redness. Later symptoms, when the growth has advanced, can involve diminished sight.

What are the Risk Factors of Pterygium?

The risk factors of pterygium or surfer’s eye include prolonged exposure to UV light, living close to the equator, living an outdoor lifestyle, living or working in dry climates and being older in age. The risk factors for pterygium are listed below.

Prolonged exposure to UV light: People who are frequently exposed to the sun and its UV rays are at higher risk of pterygium, as UV radiation is thought to be the leading cause of the pterygium growth.
Living close to equator: Living in a country close to the equator increases the risk of developing pterygium as this location is where the sun and UV radiation is at its highest, with this thought to be the major cause behind pterygium.
Outdoor lifestyle: Spending a lot of time outdoors, in the sun and dry or hot weather, is also a risk factor for pterygium as it exposes a person to the elements that may cause the condition.
Dry Climates: People who work, live or spend extended periods of time in dry climates may be at higher risk of pterygium as elements found in this climate, such as wind, dust and sand can contribute to the development of pterygium.
Age: According to the Better Health Channel, being of an older age increases the risk of developing pterygium, with 12% of men over 60 in Australia estimated to be diagnosed with the condition.

What are the Pterygium Complications?

The complications of pterygium mainly involve diminished sight. If pterygium grows to cover part of the cornea, then it may begin to impact sight. The cornea is the transparent part of the front of the eye that lets light in. If the cornea is obstructed by pterygium, it may impact how well you see. Pterygium that causes vision complications may be treated with surgery, to remove the growth.

How is Pterygium Diagnosed?

Pterygium is diagnosed by a health care professional, likely an optometrist, during an eye test. An optometrist will use a microscopic tool to examine the growth and diagnose as appropriate. An optometrist may use a slit lamp to diagnose pterygium, which is a microscope with a beam of light that allows close examination of the structures of the eye.

Where can you Seek Pterygium Diagnosis?

If you believe you may have pterygium, you can seek a diagnosis from a health care professional, either a doctor or an optometrist.

What are the Treatments Available for Pterygium?

The treatments available for pterygium, or surfer’s eye, include eye drops, surgery, topical medication and protecting the eyes from UV light. The treatments for pterygium will depend upon how far along the pterygium is, the symptoms it is causing, and whether or not it is obstructing the cornea. The types of pterygium treatments available are listed below.

Eye drops: Eye drops may be used to treat the symptoms associated with pterygium, such as dry and irritated eyes and eye inflammation.
Surgery: Eye surgery for pterygium aims to remove the growth and stop it growing over the cornea.
Topical medication: Topical ointments are a type of cream like medication that can be applied to the eye and its surrounding areas, to relieve symptoms of pterygium such as inflamed eyes.
UV Protection: If the pterygium growth is small and painless, protecting the eyes from UV rays may help prevent further growth.

It is important that you consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication. If you think you need pterygium treatment, seek medical advice.

1. Eye Drops

Eye drops are a type of liquid that is applied to the surface of the eye via an eye dropper. Eye drops will not cure nor get rid of a pterygium, but may help to relieve symptoms of this condition such as dry, irritated or inflamed eyes. Eye drops include artificial tears and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Artificial tears are a type of eye drop that aim to bring lubrication to the eye. Anti-inflammatory eye drops are a type of eye drops that contain medication to reduce inflammation in the eye. Anti-inflammatory eye drops include corticosteroids, which help to bring down swelling and ease symptoms such as mild eye pain and eye irritation.

2. Surgery

Eye surgery is a common way to treat pterygium and the only way to remove the growth from the eye. Surgery to remove pterygium describes a procedure in which an eye surgeon will remove the pterygium, as well as any affected conjunctival tissue. Eye surgery for pterygium is usually only used as a treatment when the growth has advanced close to the cornea and puts sight at risk.

3. Topical Medication

Topical medication are medications such as ointments, cream-like, semi-solid substances, that are applied to the eye and its surrounding areas. Topical eye ointments will not cure nor get rid of a pterygium, but it may be used as a treatment for the symptoms that are caused by this eye condition such as eye irritation, dry eyes and inflammation.

4. UV Protection

Protecting the eyes from UV radiation can be used to treat pterygium if the growth is small and not obstructing the cornea. UV radiation describes a type of energy produced from the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun, has been proven to have negative effects on the eyes and is thought to be a major cause of pterygium. Protecting the eyes from UV radiation may help to slow down the growth of pterygium. This treatment is often recommended in the early stages, where pterygium is small, not growing over the cornea and mostly painless, according to the Better Health Channel. To protect the eyes, it is recommended to wear UV protection glasses such as sunglasses, that have full coverage, as well as a hat when outside in the sun.

Are there any Non-Surgical Treatments Available for Pterygium?

Yes, there are non-surgical treatments for pterygium including eye drops, topical medications and protecting the eyes from UV rays. These treatments will not cure pterygium, but may help to treat the symptoms associated with the conditions.

Can Pterygium be Cured Naturally?

Pterygium can not be cured naturally, however, protecting the eyes from UV radiation is a non-invasive way to slow the growth if the pterygium is small, painless and not covering the cornea.

What are Some of the Potential Complications of Pterygium Surgery?

The potential complications of pterygium surgery include scarring and the potential regrowth of the pterygium. However, surgery to remove a pterygium is generally low-risk and effective.

How is Pterygium Prevented?

Pterygium, or surfer’s eye, may be prevented by limiting exposure to the sun and UV radiation, according to the The Australian Pterygium Centre. UV radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun. Long term exposure to UV radiation has been shown to damage the eyes and is thought to be a major cause for pterygium. To prevent pterygium, it is recommended to limit eye exposure to the sun and protect the eyes when outside. Wearing sunglasses can help prevent pterygium by protecting the eye from UV radiation. Sunglasses with wide eye cover such as wrap-around sunglasses are best to protect the eyes. It is also recommended that a person use sunglasses that meet Australian consumer standards. Wearing a hat is another important way to prevent pterygium as hats further protect the eyes and the face from the sun. Wide brim hats with full head and facial coverage are recommended to protect the eyes. Avoiding the sun at its hotter periods, or when the UV is at its highest is another way to help prevent pterygium.

Are Pterygiums Curable?

Pterygiums are not necessarily curable. Whilst a pterygium growth may be removed, it can grow back.

Does Wearing Sunglasses Help to Prevent Pterygium?

Yes, wearing sunglasses helps to prevent pterygium, or surfer’s eye. Wearing sunglasses can help to prevent pterygium by protecting the eyes from the sun and its UV rays, which are a major cause of the eye condition. Sunglasses are defined as eyewear that has a tint, or polarization over the lens, that helps to protect the eyes from the sun. The sun produces a type of energy called UV radiation which can be damaging to the eyes if they are exposed to it for a prolonged period. UV radiation is thought to be the major cause behind the development of pterygium.

How Can Oscar Wylee Assist With Your Pterygium Eye Problems?

Visit an Oscar Wylee store near you, and our dedicated optometrists can assist with eye problems such as pterygium by providing eye tests and treatment if needed. Our Oscar Wylee optometrists are equipped with the latest optometry technology to conduct eye tests that can help with diagnosing pterygium. An Oscar Wylee optometrist will also assist with any pterygium eye problems by providing advice on how to manage a pterygium and help with treatment.

What is the Difference Between Pinguecula and Pterygium?

The main differences between pinguecula and pterygium are in their appearance and their composition. A pinguecula is a yellow, raised growth on the conjunctiva that usually contains calcium, fat or protein, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. A pterygium is a triangular raised growth, usually with blood vessels, white or fleshy in colour. A pinguecula is usually contained to the conjunctiva, whereas a pterygium may grow over the conjunctiva to obstruct the cornea. Both pterygium and pinguecula are thought to be caused by exposure to UV rays and environmental factors such as wind, sand and dust from hot and dry climates. A pterygium can start as a pinguecula. In considering the question, pinguecula vs pterygium, it is clear that whilst these growths have similar causes, their appearance, composition and progression are what separates the two.