Pinguecula are yellow bumps or spots that grow on the conjunctiva, which is the clear layer along the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye (sclera). PThe growth of the pinguecula lump or spot is classified as benign and not cancer.so it's not dangerous.
When experiencing pinguecula, the eye will feel dry, swollen, painful, or red. Although pinguecula is more commonly experienced by elderly people (elderly), it is possible that younger people and even children can also experience this condition.
Causes of Pinguecula
Pinguecula arise from the tissue in the conjunctiva that changes, thus forming small lumps or spots. Pinguecula lumps or spots usually contain fat, calcium, or protein.
The cause of conjunctival tissue changes is not known. However, the following factors are thought to be associated with the appearance of pinguecula:
- Too often exposed to sun, dust, or wind
- Frequent outdoor activities and living in hot areas
- old age
- Have a smoking habit
- Suffering from diabetes mellitus
Pinguecula Symptoms
Pinguecula is characterized by small yellowish spots or bumps on the conjunctiva of the eye. These spots or bumps usually grow on the side of the cornea near the nose, although they can grow on other parts of the body as well. Pinguecula can grow in size, but generally takes several years.
In addition to yellow spots and bumps, people with pinguecula may also experience the following symptoms:
- The conjunctiva of the eye is red and swollen
- Dry eyes, itchy, burning, or like there is sand stuck in the eye
- Blurred vision
When to go to the doctor
In general, pinguecula does not cause serious symptoms, so it does not require treatment. However, an examination is necessary if the following symptoms occur:
- Pinguecula changes in size, shape, or color
- A thick, yellow discharge from one or both eyes
- The eyelids or skin around the eyes are red and swollen
- Symptoms do not go away even after treatment
- Visual disturbances occur
An examination should also be done if you have concerns about the condition you are experiencing.
Pinguecula Diagnosis
Pinguecula can be diagnosed through a physical examination of the eye. Optometrists can generally tell this condition just by looking directly at the appearance and location of the growing spot or lump.
However, to confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may also carry out an examination slit lampbiomicroscopy. This examination will show the size, shape, and color of the lump more clearly.
If needed, a scanning procedure called optical coherence tomography may also be performed to determine the thickness of the lump.
Pinguecula Treatment
Generally, no specific treatment is needed because the condition can get better on its own. However, treatment can be done when the eye feels very uncomfortable or vision is blocked.
To overcome discomfort in the eyes, usually sensations such as sand in the eyes and irritation due to dry eyes, doctors can give eye drops or eye ointments. Meanwhile, to relieve red or swollen eyes, the doctor will give corticosteroid eye drops.
If the pinguecula growth is disturbing appearance, the lump or spot can be removed by surgery. Surgical options may also be considered if the pinguecula has interfered with vision, or if it continues to cause inflammation and discomfort, despite treatment.
If the pinguecula needs to be treated surgically, the doctor may also transplant a piece of normal tissue at the site where the pinguecula occurred. This is done to prevent lumps or spots from reappearing.
Pinguecula Complications
In rare cases, the pinguecula can continue to grow until it covers the cornea and interferes with vision. This condition is known as pterygium.
Pinguecula Prevention
Since the cause is unknown, pinguecula is difficult to completely prevent. However, there are some things you can do below to reduce the risk of pinguecula or prevent the condition from getting worse for those who already have pinguecula:
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors. This effort aims to block ultraviolet A (UVA) and B (UVB) radiation, as well as protect the eyes from eye irritants, such as wind or dust.
- Use synthetic tears to keep your eyes moist and to relieve dry, red, and painful eyes.
- Use eye protection, especially when working with chemicals or cleaning dusty rooms.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can make pinguecula symptoms worse.