A pinguecula is a common age‑related condition and looks like a white or yellow bump on the white of the eye (sclera) caused by a thickening of the conjunctiva (the thin protective layer), usually found close to the edge of the cornea.
Signs and symptoms of pinguecula
Most people with a pinguecula won’t experience any symptoms. But it is possible for the bump that a pinguecula creates on the eye’s surface can interfere with how the tear film is spread across the eye, which can lead to dry eyes.
Other symptoms of pinguecula include red eyes and eye irritation.
Pinguecula causes
Pingueculae develop as a normal part of the ageing process and most people by the age of 70 are likely to have one.
The main cause of a pinguecula is long‑term exposure to UV radiation from the sun. So if you spend a lot of time outside, you’re more likely to develop a pinguecula.
Other causes can include chronic irritation from wind or dust, and sometimes contact lens wear may be a contributing factor to the condition.
Treatment options for pinguecula
The majority of pinguecula cases don’t require any treatment. If you also experience accompanying symptoms of dry eye syndrome, or it feels like there’s something in your eye, lubricating eye drops can help to relieve symptoms.
Wearing sunglasses or contact lenses with UV blocking filters may help to protect the pinguecula from further exposure to UV light.
In the very rare event that a pinguecula becomes increasingly uncomfortable or inflamed, it may be necessary to have it removed with surgery.
Prevention of pinguecula
You can help prevent pinguecula from developing by wearing sunglasses with UV protection and a hat when you’re outdoors, especially if you spend a lot of time on the water or snow.
Did you know?
Pinguecula is a tiny white or yellow bump on the conjunctiva. If suspected, contact your local store or see your GP for details.
FAQs
The vast majority of pinguecula cases are harmless and only require simple treatment, like eye drops.
Yes, in mild cases, lubricating eye drops can be used to relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, surgical removal may be recommended.
A pinguecula is a thickening to the conjunctiva – the protective surface of the eye – and so is unable to affect your vision.
Only in the rarest of situations is a pinguecula surgically removed because it is a normal change of the eye’s surface.
A pinguecula is a small, white to yellowish bump located only in the conjunctiva. A pterygium is a fibrous growth on the eye’s surface which starts over the conjunctiva and may extend over the cornea. Pterygia (plural of pterygium) can in some circumstances grow large enough to affect your vision.
If a pinguecula becomes inflamed, it may cause discomfort, irritation and redness of the eye.
A pinguecula is an area of thickening that develops on the white of your eye. Pingueculae affect the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane that covers the white part of your eye.
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