Can You Stop a Pterygium from Growing? Signs, Risks & What to Do Next
A pterygium is a benign growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea. It often appears as a triangular or wing-shaped growth on the white part of the eye near the nose. While pterygia are usually non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort, redness, and visual disturbances if they enlarge or grow over the cornea.
Causes and Risk Factors of Pterygium Growth
Pterygium formation and growth are primarily linked to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV radiation from sunlight can damage the conjunctival tissue, triggering inflammation and abnormal cell growth. Other environmental factors including wind, dust, and dry conditions can also irritate the eyes and contribute to the development and progression of pterygia. Geographic location plays a role, with individuals living closer to the equator or at high altitudes being at greater risk.
Genetics may also influence susceptibility to pterygium. Some people are more prone to forming these growths based on hereditary factors. Additionally, occupations or hobbies that require significant time spent outdoors without eye protection can increase the likelihood of pterygium growth.
Protective Measures to Prevent Pterygium Growth
The most effective way to stop or slow the growth of a pterygium is to reduce exposure to the factors that cause or exacerbate it. Wearing sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays is crucial. Wraparound sunglasses provide better protection by shielding the eyes from UV light entering from the sides.
Wearing wide-brimmed hats can also help protect the eyes and surrounding skin from direct sunlight. Avoiding outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., can further reduce UV exposure.
Eye lubricants such as artificial tears can help manage symptoms of dryness and irritation that might encourage pterygium progression. Maintaining good hydration of the ocular surface reduces inflammation and discomfort.
Medical Treatments to Control Pterygium
If a pterygium is causing discomfort or shows signs of growth, medical treatment may be necessary to manage symptoms and potentially slow progression. Anti-inflammatory eye drops, typically corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can reduce redness and swelling. These medications can provide temporary relief but should be used under the supervision of an eye care professional due to potential side effects with prolonged use.
In cases of significant irritation, lubricating gels or ointments applied at night can help protect the ocular surface and prevent dryness-related symptoms.
Some studies have suggested that medications targeting specific cellular growth pathways may help control pterygium progression. However, these treatments are still under research and not yet widely adopted in clinical practice.
Surgical Options and Postoperative Care
When a pterygium grows to the point it threatens vision or causes chronic discomfort, surgical removal becomes an option. Surgery involves excising the pterygium and often grafting healthy conjunctival tissue to the affected area to prevent recurrence.
While surgery can effectively remove the growth, pterygia have a tendency to recur, often larger than before. Postoperative care is critical to minimize this risk. Surgeons commonly prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and closely monitor the healing process.
In some cases, adjunctive treatments such as mitomycin C, an anti-metabolite, are applied during or after surgery to reduce recurrence risk by inhibiting abnormal fibroblast growth.
Lifestyle and Long-Term Management
Long-term prevention of pterygium growth centers on consistent eye protection and monitoring. Patients should wear UV-blocking eyewear whenever outdoors, even on cloudy days, as UV rays penetrate clouds.
Regular eye examinations are important for people with pterygia to track any changes in size or appearance. Early detection of growth allows timely intervention to prevent complications.
Avoiding eye rubbing and controlling dry eye symptoms can reduce irritation that may contribute to growth. Using prescribed artificial tears and managing environmental factors such as air conditioning or wind exposure are helpful strategies.
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