The conjunctiva is the clear membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the white of the eye. The growth looks like a thickened area of tissue and is often cream colored. Some people may notice blood vessels on it. It is called a pingueculum if it does not reach the cornea, the part of the outer layer of your eye that covers the colored part of the eye (the iris). If the growth gets bigger and extends onto the cornea, it is called a pterygium.
These growths may be caused by:
If your eyes are often exposed to harsh conditions, these growths are more likely to develop. They are more common in people who live close to the equator.
Most commonly there are no symptoms. If you do have symptoms they may include:
These growths are often found during a routine eye exam. An eye care provider will do a thorough exam and advise you about treatment.
A pterygium may grow and cause vision problems. It can block light entering your eye. Also, a growing pterygium can change the shape of your cornea and cause blurred and distorted vision. A pterygium that causes vision problems can be removed with surgery. Your surgeon may also remove a normal piece of tissue from another part of your eye, or use donor tissue, and put the tissue over the area where the pterygium was removed. Sometimes special medicines are used during surgery. These techniques may help keep the growth from coming back.
The growth will not go away on its own. Sometimes it will come back even after surgery.
If these growths do not cause any problems, they do not need to be treated. If they cause redness or irritation, you can use eyedrops called artificial tears. You can buy these products without a prescription.
If you have symptoms that continue or get worse, or if your vision becomes blurred, see your healthcare provider. You may need other medicine if the pingueculum becomes red, irritated, or swollen.
Growths on the conjunctiva happen more often in sunny and windy areas. Wear sunglasses outdoors to help decrease the chance of developing these growths. It may also help to use artificial tears to prevent dry eyes.
