Pterygiums are very common in Texas and other warm climates. The white part of the eye (sclera) is covered by a clear transparent membrane (conjunctiva). The ultraviolet light alters the properties of the conjunctiva so that is starts to grow in an irregular manner. This sun-damaged portion of the conjunctiva is called a pterygium. Pterygiums usually occur on the nasal sclera, the white part of the eye closest to the nose. The conjunctiva bunches up and can start growing in a wedge-like manner over the dark part of the eye (cornea).

Pterygiums can cause the eye to turn red, feel irritated, and tear excessively. It can also change the shape of the eye inducing astigmatism and resulting in blurred vision. If the pterygium grows over the dark part of the eye, it can result in permanent scarring resulting in a devastating loss of vision.

See Pterygium Surgery