Pterygium

Pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue (has blood vessels) that may start as a pinguecula. It can remain small or grow large enough to cover part of the cornea. When this happens, it can affect your vision.

Avoiding Pterygium

lf you have had a pterygium at least once before, try to avoid the things that cause these growths. Here are some ways:

• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light.
• Protect your eyes from dust by wearing glasses or goggles.
• Use artificial tears when your eyes are dry.

Pterygium is believed to be caused by a combination of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, wind and dust.

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Pterygium Treatment in Houston, TX

Dr. Hung Le can treat the discomfort, redness or swelling from a pterygium with lubricating or steroid eye drops.

If a pterygium grows large enough to cause problems, your ophthalmologist will probably recommend surgery to remove it.

Once the pterygium is removed, our surgeon may transplant a thin piece of normal tissue onto the affected area. This technique helps reduce the chance that your pterygium will grow back.

The best way to keep pterygium from coming back is to avoid sunlight, dryness and dust.