Choose the content to read
- What is Pinguecula and what causes it?
- What are the common symptoms of Pinguecula?
- What are the primary risk factors for Pinguecula?
- How do eye specialists diagnose Pinguecula?
- What are the best treatment options for Pinguecula?
- How can you prevent Pinguecula from developing?
Pinguecula
A pinguecula is a deposit of fat, protein, calcium, or a combination of all three, which looks like a small yellowish raised bump on the eye’s conjunctiva. It appears on the inside corner of one or both eyes. The growth can be a round or triangular shape, which increases in size over time.
A pinguecula is usually harmless and does not cause any pain. Treatment or surgery is not necessary in most cases. If you have discomfort, it can be relieved with eye drops or ointments.
What are the common symptoms of Pinguecula?
- A small and yellowish bump on the conjunctiva in one or both eyes.
- Redness, swelling, itchiness, and irritation in the eyes.
- Gritty or dry eye.
- Watery eye.
When to see a doctor
If you notice any change in your vision or have ongoing discomfort, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
What are the primary risk factors for Pinguecula?
- Long-term exposure to sunlight and UV radiation, dust, and wind.
- Old age: Pinguecula is common in middle-aged and senior adults; almost all elderly people have pinguecula.
How do eye specialists diagnose Pinguecula?
Slit lamp exam. Your doctor can examine the anterior and posterior aspects of your eye.
What are the best treatment options for Pinguecula?
Pinguecula is not dangerous and does not affect your vision or cause blindness. Though it does not go away by itself, it does not usually cause any severe symptoms. If you have eye discomfort, your doctor may prescribe treatments as follows:
- Artificial tears or eye ointments for moistening your eyes
- Steroid eye drops for relief of swelling and redness in the eye.
- The doctor may suggest surgical removal if the inflammation does not improve over time, the growth affects your vision, or you dislike the appearance of the pinguecula on your eye. However, pinguecula recurrence is possible after surgery.
How can you prevent Pinguecula from developing?
- Wear wrap-around sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors in the sun. Protect yourself from ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B, the common causes.
- Wear safety eyewear if you work in a dusty or dry environment.
- Moisten your eyes with eye drops to relieve irritation.
FAQ
- Q: What causes Pinguecula?
A: A pinguecula is a non-cancerous growth caused by the degeneration of conjunctival tissue. This results in the accumulation of protein, fat, or calcium. The primary triggers include chronic exposure to UV rays (sunlight), dust, wind, and dry eye conditions. - Q: What are the symptoms of Pinguecula?
A: Common signs include a small, yellowish raised bump on the white of the eye (usually near the nose). Other symptoms are:- Eye irritation and redness.
- A "foreign body" sensation (feeling like sand in the eye).
- Dryness and itching.
- Q: Is Pinguecula dangerous? How is it treated?
A: Pinguecula is not dangerous and does not lead to blindness. While it won't disappear on its own, treatment focuses on symptom relief:- Mild cases: Use artificial tears or lubricating ointments for comfort.
- Inflammation: Doctors may prescribe steroid eye drops to reduce swelling.
- Surgery: Only recommended if the growth interferes with vision or develops into a Pterygium.
