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Pinguecula

Noticed a yellow spot or a bump on the white of your eye? Learn about pinguecula, a common eye growth, its causes, and how it's treated.

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What is a pinguecula?

A pinguecula is a common yellowish bump on the white of the eye, caused by protein, fat and calcium deposits. It can look like a blister or pimple, and is often linked to sun, wind and dust exposure.

What are the symptoms of pinguecula?

Many people with a pinguecula have no symptoms other than the appearance of the yellow spot on the eyeball. However, when a pinguecula becomes inflamed (a condition called pingueculitis), it can cause discomfort. Common symptoms include: 

  • A yellowish or white bump on the eyeball: This is the most common sign, often appearing on the side of the eye closest to the nose. 

  • Red or bloodshot eyes: The area around the pinguecula can become inflamed and red. 

  • Feeling of something in your eye: The raised bump can cause a gritty or sandy sensation.  

  • Itchy eyes: The affected eye may feel itchy and irritated. 

  • Dry eye sensation: A pinguecula can disrupt the tear film, leading to symptoms of dry eye syndrome. 

  • Eye stinging and watering: The irritation can cause the eye to sting and produce excess tears.

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Do these symptoms sound familiar?

If you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above it's worth booking an appointment with one of our optometrists.

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What causes a pinguecula?

We don’t know the exact cause of a pinguecula, but it’s strongly linked to long‑term exposure to things like sunlight, wind and dust. UV rays from the sun are the biggest risk factor, especially for people living in sunny places or spending a lot of time outdoors without sunglasses. Wind and dust can also irritate the eyes and play a part.

How is a pinguecula treated?

In most cases, a pinguecula doesn't require any treatment, especially if it's not causing any symptoms. However, if the pinguecula becomes inflamed (pingueculitis) and causes discomfort, your optometrist may recommend one of the following treatments to relieve the symptoms. 

  • Lubricating eye drops: Artificial tears can help to relieve dryness and the feeling of having something in your eye. 

  • Steroid eye drops or ointments: For more severe inflammation, your optometrist may prescribe steroid eye drops to reduce swelling and redness. 

  • Scleral contact lenses: In some cases, special contact lenses can be used to cover the growth, protecting it from dryness and some of the effects of exposure to wind and dust. 

  • Surgery: Surgical removal of a pinguecula is rarely necessary. It's usually only considered if the pinguecula is causing significant discomfort, interfering with contact lens wear, or if it's cosmetically bothersome.

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Can a pinguecula be prevented?

The best way to prevent a pinguecula or stop it from getting worse is to protect your eyes from things like the sun, wind and dust. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, even on cloudy days. A wide‑brimmed hat can help too. If you’re in a dusty or windy environment, use safety glasses or goggles. And if you have dry eyes, regular use of artificial tears can reduce irritation.

Pinguecula FAQs:

Written by our experts for peace of mind

https://images.ctfassets.net/zcryw81f0g1x/5mrcuMDlru21b9LMMuIQn7/34dcf1c5e9fe3ed41c4ea4077537d61f/Ross_Campbell_Northallerton.jpg

Ross Campbell

BSc Hons MCOptom Prof Cert Glauc Prof Cert Med Ret

Ross is an experienced optometrist having graduated in 2007 from Bradford University. He is also ophthalmic director of Specsavers Swaledale with Northallerton & Thirsk, a pre‑registration supervisor, professional advancement consultant, and a WOPEC Lead Assessor. He has previously worked as Director of Optometry Advancement for Specsavers and as a columnist for Optician & ProFile magazine.

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Get expert eye advice

If you’ve noticed a change in your vision, or have experienced any symptoms mentioned above, it’s worth booking an appointment with one of our optometrists.

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