Summary about Disease
Pinguecula is a common, benign growth that develops on the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye (sclera). It appears as a yellowish or whitish raised bump, usually located on the side of the eye closest to the nose. Pingueculae are not cancerous and generally do not affect vision, although they can sometimes cause irritation.
Symptoms
Yellowish or whitish raised bump on the conjunctiva, usually near the nose
Dryness
Gritty or sandy feeling in the eye
Redness
Irritation or itching
Blurred vision (rare, if the pinguecula is large or disrupts the tear film)
Causes
The exact cause is not fully understood, but common contributing factors include:
Chronic exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation)
Wind
Dust
Dryness
Medicine Used
Artificial tears (over-the-counter) to relieve dryness and irritation
Topical corticosteroids (prescription) for inflammation, used sparingly and under a doctor's supervision
Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (prescription) for inflammation.
Is Communicable
No, pinguecula is not contagious or communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Wear sunglasses that block UV rays when outdoors
Use artificial tears to keep eyes lubricated, especially in dry or windy conditions
Avoid rubbing your eyes
Stay hydrated
How long does an outbreak last?
Pinguecula is not an "outbreak," but rather a chronic condition. A pinguecula can persist indefinitely. Symptoms like irritation or redness may flare up periodically, but the growth itself is generally permanent without medical intervention. Symptoms can be managed to improve comfort.
How is it diagnosed?
A pinguecula is typically diagnosed during a routine eye exam. An eye doctor can identify the growth by visually examining the eye. No special tests are usually required.
Timeline of Symptoms
Pinguecula develops gradually over time. The bump appears slowly. Symptoms may be intermittent, flaring up with exposure to irritants like sun, wind, or dust, and then subsiding with rest and lubrication. There is no specific, predictable timeline; progression varies from person to person.
Important Considerations
While pingueculae are generally harmless, they can sometimes become inflamed (pingueculitis) or grow larger.
It is important to have regular eye exams to monitor the condition and rule out other potential problems.
In rare cases, if a pinguecula is significantly affecting vision or causing severe discomfort, surgical removal may be considered.
A pinguecula can be mistaken for a pterygium, another growth on the eye. A pterygium grows onto the cornea and may eventually affect vision more severely. An eye doctor can differentiate between the two.