Difference between pterygium and pinguecula

El pterygium and pinguecula Are characterized by be a degeneration of the conjunctiva of the eye, however, are not the same. The difference between pterygium and pinguecula is that the pterygium is the growth of fleshy tissue which can increase its size, while the pinguecula is the growth of the conjunctiva, is generally identified by its yellowish color formed by fat deposits, protein or calcium.

Difference between pterygium and pinguecula

El pterygium and pinguecula Are characterized by be a degeneration of the conjunctiva of the eye, however, are not the same. The difference between pterygium and pinguecula is that the pterygium is the growth of fleshy tissue which can increase its size, while the pinguecula is the growth of the conjunctiva, is generally identified by its yellowish color formed by deposits of fat, protein or calcium.

Fleshy Eye: What is pterygium and pinguecula?

La fleshiness in the eyeAlso known as pterygium and pinguecula According to the size it has, it appears when the conjunctiva, or white part of the eye, forms a benign, yellowish lump made up of protein, calcium, or fat. Both in the case of pterygium as in the pinguecula it is a small formation It grows in the white part of the eye, in the area closest to the nose. When it grows more and spreads throughout the cornea reaching the pupil we start to call it pterygium.

The appearance of a fleshiness in the eye can alarms; Nevertheless, it is a benign condition, that is, the bulk not considered a cancerous tumor. As we have already seen, it is easy confuse between pterygium and pinguecula, because in both cases we are talking about eyes with meatiness. To avoid falling into the error, we are going to see what is the difference between pinguecula and pterygium.

Difference between pterygium and pinguecula

The first thing to keep in mind is that both pathologies are closely relatedbecause very often the pterygium evolves from a pinguecula. Although the pinguecula is small and usually has a yellowish color, pterygium may be oval, elongated, or triangular in shape e increase its size until clearly distinguished.

En initial stages none of the two conditions represents a risk for adequate vision; Nevertheless, if the pterygium grows enough yeah can hinder vision and lead to more complex treatment than, on some occasions, requires have to resort to pterygium surgery. For this reason, en Área Oftalmológica Avanzada always we recommend that before the appearance of any abnormality in the eyes resort to a specialized review for a complete diagnosis.

pterygium and pinguecula

Causes of pterygium and pinguecula

All the causes of pterygium and pinguecula are not known exactly; however, these conditions they appear more frequently in people who spend a lot of time outdoors, Especially in sunny weather, warm y windy. A close relationship between prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays and the appearance of any fleshy eye, which is why specialists recommend the wearing sun glasses when you spend a lot of time outdoors in these conditions, this in order to protect and guarantee eye health.

Others factors like dry eye syndrome or irritation caused by frequent dust exposureAs well as aging, they can contribute to its appearance

Treatment of pterygium and pinguecula

In many cases these conditions do not require treatment but, when any inflammation or irritation which can generate discomfort to the patient, eye drops are administered to keep the eye hydrated and reduce the chances of possible inflammation. When the lump is very swollen the ophthalmologist can recommend the steroid drops or ointments to reduce swelling.

In cases where the pterygium is large enough to make vision difficult, a pterygium operation may be used to remove it. Despite this, this condition can reappear, Especially in patients under 40 years.

Laser pterygium operation

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Therefore, for avoid a new formation of this fleshy lump, en Área Oftalmológica Avanzada recommend :

  • Protect the eyes with sunglasses Suitable when you are outdoors, especially in sunny environments where you will stay for a long time.
  • Use appropriate glasses specific to each situationespecially if you work in dusty environments or surrounded by particles such as sawdust.
  • Employ a proper treatment to combat dry eye and keep it lubricated.
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Difference between pinguecula and pterygium
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Difference between pinguecula and pterygium
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Know the difference between piguecula and pterygium, two related conditions characterized by the appearance of a benign lump in the eye.
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Área Oftalmológica Avanzada
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