Some eye ailments are aggravated by the sun and occur more often when people spend a great deal of time outdoors, especially in sunny climates. Two common conditions are the pterygium (that’s ter ig¢ ee um) and the pinguecula

A pterygium is fleshy tissue that grows over the cornea (the clear front window of the eye). It may remain small or grow large enough to interfere with vision. A pterygium can occur either on the inner and outer corner of the eye. The exact cause is not known. Long-term exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet rays, and chronic eye irritation from dry, dusty conditions seem to be factors. Dry eye may also contribute to pterygium.

When a pterygium becomes red and irritated, eyedrops or ointments may be used to help reduce the inflammation and decrease irritation. If the pterygium grows rapidly, is large enough to threaten sight or just plain ugly, it may be removed surgically.

To minimize recurrence, the surgen will replace the abnormal growth with normal tissue that is grafted into position. Previously, these grafts had to be sewn into place with multiple small stitches. The use of tissue glue instead of stitches has made the procedure quicker and the recovery easier for the patient.

Despite proper surgical removal, the pterygium may return, particularly in young people. Protecting the eyes from sun, dust and wind is very important. Avoiding excessive sunlight with proper sunglasses and the liberal use of artificial tears may also help. In some cases, steroid drops are prescribed to reduce inflammation.

A pinguecula is a yellowish patch or bump on the white of the eye, most often on the side closest to the nose. It is not a tumor, but an alteration of normal tissue resulting in a deposit of protein and fat. Unlike a pterygium, a pinguecula does not actually grow onto the cornea. A pinguecula may also be a response to chronic eye irritation or sunlight.

No treatment is necessary unless it becomes inflamed. A pinguecula does not grow onto the cornea or threaten sight. If if becomes annoying, a pinguecula may on rare occasions be surgically removed. However, the postoperative scar may be as cosmetically objectionable as the pinguecula.

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