PREVENTING PTERYGIUM

To prevent pterygia forming, or to reduce

the risk of a pterygium recurring, the
following measures are recommended:

• Use sunglasses that block out ultra-violet

light (close-fitting, wrap around styles
are best)
• Wear sunglasses and a hat with a wide
brim when outdoors
• Avoid exposure to environmental
irritants eg: smoke, dust, wind and
chemical pollutants
• Use appropriate eye safety equipment in
work environments. VISION FIRST
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please feel free to contact us at
Ptervgium
MINISTRY OF HEALTH

•
BAHAMAS

i~'
~

SOUTH BEACH HEALTH CENTER

VISION ROOM
Tel: (242) 392-2123
(242) 392-1773 or (242) 392-7929
Extension 2221

EYE CARE CENTER

(242) 393-1458 or (242) 393-1445- 7
Extension 2221

THE EYE WARD

Princess Margaret Hospital
(242) 322-2861 ext. 2346 or 2642

A WORD TO THE WISE PROTECT YOUR EYES! HAVE YOUR EYE EXAM DONE TODAY!
 WHAT IS PTERYGIUM? HOW IS PTERYGIUM TREATED?
Pterygium is a fleshy growth that cover the The most important indicationsfor
white portion of the eye knows as the treatment are:
conjunctiva. The growth is often shaped like • Involvement of, or threat to, the visual
a wedge. axis
• Loss of vision from astigmatism
The exact HEALTY • Restriction of eye movement
cause of the Normal
conjunctiva
• Atypical appearance suggesting
growth is dysplasia
unknown. • Increasing size (documented by an
However, it ophthalmologist)
has been HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
Less important indicationsare:
linked to Pterygia can usually be diagnosed by its
exposure to distinctive appearance and symptoms. A • Increasing size (reported by the patient)
the following - small non-cancerous eye growth that • Symptoms of irritation and complaints
sunlight, PTERYGIUM
affects the conjunctiva (a thin transparent of redness, etc.
Abnormal growth
chemical, salt, of the conjunctiva
on the cornea layer of tissue that covers the white part of • Cosmetic issues
wind, and dust the eye).
commonly Pterygium only has to be treated if it is
seen in For an accurate diagnosis to be made a interfering with your vision or causing
tropical /h
referral to an ophthalmologist (eye extreme discomfort. Treatment depends
climates I ike ~f?D~?:;fi~fl!!T(i~~~ specialist) is recommended. on the size and nature of the pterygium,
The Bahamas. the symptoms and whether vision is
The ophthalmologist will examines both
affected.
eyes using (specialized equipment), known
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
as a slit lamp to diagnose pterygium. Also a
Mild Stage
Although the exact cause of pterygium is brief test of your vision, known as a visual
Natural Tears are usually prescribed.
not known, one explanation is being acuity test will be performed This test
exposed to too much ultraviolet (uv) light - determines how well you can see near and
Intermediate Stage
pterygium is more common among far.
individuals who live in warm climates and Corticosteriods are prescribed to reduce
those who spend a lot of time outdoors inflammation.
during sunny and windy seasons person
exposed to the following elements are at
higher risk. Surgery is performed when medication
• Smoke • Sand does not proved relief or it causesa loss
• Wind • Pollen of vision.