Pterygium Treatment Service – Eye Bangkok Hospital

Pterygium is a common ocular surface condition in which abnormal conjunctival tissue grows in a triangular shape on the white part of the eye and may extend onto the cornea. It can cause chronic redness, irritation, dryness, and when advanced blurred vision or astigmatism.

At Eye Bangkok Hospital, our ophthalmologists provide comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans for pterygium, ranging from conservative symptom control to surgical removal, with the goal of reducing recurrence and restoring long-term eye comfort and visual quality.

What Causes Pterygium?

While the exact cause may vary, pterygium is strongly associated with chronic ocular surface irritation, including:

• - UV exposure from sunlight (common in outdoor workers)

• - Wind, dust, smoke, and pollution

• - Prolonged screen use contributing to eye strain and dry eye

• - Genetic predisposition

• - Chronic dry eye or frequent irritation

• - Certain systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes) in some cases

Symptoms

Early-stage pterygium may cause mild dryness or irritation. As it progresses, a visible fleshy growth with small blood vessels may appear, along with:

• - Redness, burning, foreign body sensation

• - Itching and tearing

• - Increasing irritation during flare-ups

• - Blurred vision, double vision, or induced astigmatism if it extends onto the cornea

Treatment at Eye Bangkok Hospital

Conservative (Non-surgical) Management

• - Artificial tears for lubrication

• - Anti-inflammatory eye drops during flare-ups

• - UV and irritant avoidance

Eye drops relieve symptoms but cannot remove the pterygium.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended when pterygium:

• - Affects vision or induces astigmatism

• - Causes frequent inflammation and significant discomfort

• - Progresses toward the visual axis

Surgical approaches may include:

• - Simple excision (higher recurrence risk)

• - Excision with conjunctival grafting (faster healing and lower recurrence risk)

Follow-up monitoring is important after surgery.

Prevention

• - Wear UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat outdoors

• - Avoid dusty, windy environments; use protective eyewear when needed

• - Use a full-face helmet or visor when riding a motorcycle

• - Use artificial tears if prone to dry eye, especially in air-conditioned settings

• - Take regular breaks during prolonged screen use

• - Schedule routine eye check-ups to detect early changes

Early Care Helps Prevent Progression

If you notice chronic redness, irritation, or a visible growth on the white of the eye, consult an ophthalmologist for proper diagnosis and timely treatment.