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Pterygium

A pterygium is a benign triangular growth of conjunctiva over the cornea. Sunlight, wind, dust and dryness play a part, making it more common in tropical climates. Artificial tears and protection can reduce irritation; growth towards the pupil, changes in vision or persistent discomfort require assessment by an ophthalmologist.

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A pterygium is a benign triangular growth of conjunctiva over the cornea. Sunlight, wind, dust and dryness play a part, making it more common in tropical climates. Artificial tears and protection can reduce irritation; growth towards the pupil, changes in vision or persistent discomfort require assessment by an ophthalmologist.

  • A triangular, fleshy or translucent membrane with blood vessels growing from the white of the eye over the cornea.
  • Redness, burning, dryness, watering or a gritty sensation, particularly in wind and dust.
  • Outdoors, wear well-fitting sunglasses with full UV protection, preferably with side coverage, together with a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
  • Use safety glasses around dust, grinding, construction, gardening and strong wind.
  • Make an appointment for a new growth on the eye, measurable spread, a changed glasses prescription, recurring irritation or less sharp vision.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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Further reading

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Y
Yellow bump on the white of your eyeA small raised yellowish-white spot on the white of the eye is often a pinguecula: a benign change in the conjunctiva, the thin covering over the white of the eye, associated with factors such as sun, wind and dryness. The spot usually does not grow over the cornea and often needs no treatment. Pain, light sensitivity, poorer vision, an injury or a suddenly very red eye does not fit an uninflamed pinguecula and needs prompt assessment.
D
Dry eyesDry eyes occur when there is too little tear film, it evaporates too quickly or its quality is poor. Burning, stinging, grittiness, fluctuating blurred vision and, surprisingly, watery eyes are common. Sun, wind, air conditioning, screen use and contact lenses can worsen symptoms in Curaçao. A painful red eye or sudden loss of vision is not ordinary dryness.
E
EpiscleritisEpiscleritis is usually mild inflammation of the thin tissue between the conjunctiva and the white of the eye. It often causes a sudden local red patch, irritation and mild tenderness without reduced vision. A red eye with severe deep pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, contact-lens use or injury needs prompt assessment because a more serious cause may be present.