Surfer's eye or pterygium is eye disease characterized by the growth of membrane on the white part of the ball eyethe one that can reach the cornea. This condition can occur in one of the just eyes or both eyes at once.
Pterygium can be preceded by the appearance of pinguecula which is a yellowish stain on the white part of the eye. Pinguecula occurs due to a clump of protein, fat, or calcium in the eye.
Pterygium are not cancerous cells and rarely cause dangerous complications. However, if it continues to grow and spread to cover the cornea or even the pupil of the eye, it can interfere with the sufferer's vision.
SymptomPterygym
Symptoms of pterygium are characterized by the growth of a membrane on the white (sclera) surface of the eyeball. This membrane usually does not cause other complaints, but it can still be accompanied by other disturbing symptoms, including:
- Red eye.
- Feel itchy or sore in the area of the membrane.
- It feels like something is stuck in the eye if the pterygium membrane is too thick or wide.
Pterygium can also cause impaired vision when the growth has reached the cornea of the eye, such as blurring or double vision.
When to go to the doctor
Examination should be done immediately when symptoms appear to prevent the growth of pterygium from getting thicker and wider. If you've had pterygium, it's also important to watch out for the reappearance of symptoms.
Pterygium can originate from the pinguecula. So, if pinguecula symptoms appear, an examination to a doctor should be done to prevent pterygium. These symptoms include:
- Yellowish patches on the whites of the eyes.
- Red eye.
- Eyes feel dry, sore, and itchy.
- Like there is sand in the eye.
Eye examinations actually need to be done regularly by an ophthalmologist. This is done to prevent or detect early if there is a disease or disorder in the eye. This examination is recommended once every 1-4 years for children or someone aged 40 years and over.
Cause of Pterygym
The exact cause of pterygium is not known. However, this condition is more common in those who often do outdoor activities. Excessive sun exposure is the most potential factor causing pterygium.
In addition, dry eyes are also thought to be a trigger factor. Sand, dust, smoke, and wind are thought to increase the risk of pterygium. Pterygium can also start from the appearance of pinguecula in the eye. Pinguecula that grow to reach the cornea of the eye can turn into a pterygium.
Pterygium Diagnosis
Pterygium can be detected by doctors through its main symptom, namely the growth of a thin membrane on the surface of the eyeball. The ophthalmologist will also carry out a more thorough examination with the procedure slit lamp using a special tool such as a luminous magnifying glass to examine the condition of the eye.
If needed, the doctor will perform a more detailed examination. This examination serves to measure the ability of vision and examine changes in the curvature of the patient's cornea. An eye photo may also be taken to see the growth of the pterygium.
Treatment Pterygium
The condition of pterygium usually does not require treatment if it does not cause complaints other than the appearance of a membrane.
For red eyes and irritation due to pterygium, treatment is sufficient by giving eye drops or ointments containing corticosteroids or lubricants to relieve inflammation.
Pterygium surgery procedures can be performed if pterygium can no longer be treated with eye drops or ointments, or causes decreased vision. Surgery may also be performed for aesthetic or cosmetic reasons.
Complications of Pterygium
Although rare, pterygium can grow to reach the cornea and cause complications in the form of injury to the cornea. This condition can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
In addition to the pterygium condition itself, surgery to treat pterygium may also cause some complications, such as:
- Astigmatism
- Pterygium recurrence after surgery
- Dry eyes
- Irritation
Discuss further with your doctor about the benefits and risks of pterygium surgery.
Pterygium Prevention
Prevention of pterygium can be done by wearing sunglasses or a hat when outdoor activities. This is to avoid exposure to sunlight, smoke, or dust that can trigger pterygium.
To prevent dry eyes, eye moisture can be maintained by using artificial tear drops. Besides being useful for preventing pterygium, the use of lubricants in the eye can also prevent the recurrence of pterygium.