Pterygium eye checks in Reservoir
Pterygium (surfer’s eye): symptoms, UV protection and eye checks
A pterygium is a non-cancerous growth of the clear membrane over the white of the eye. It often begins near the nose and can slowly extend towards the cornea.
Many pterygia cause little trouble, but redness, irritation, a visible change or altered vision are good reasons to have the eye checked.
What you may notice
Common pterygium symptoms
A visible growth
A raised, triangular or fleshy area on the white of the eye, most often on the side nearest the nose.
Surface irritation
Redness, dryness, itching, burning or a gritty sensation can occur, particularly when the surface is inflamed.
Vision changes
If the growth extends further onto the cornea it may change its shape or interfere with vision.
A pterygium is usually painless. A new lump, persistent redness or irritation still deserves an assessment because several eye-surface conditions can look alike.
Why it develops
UV exposure is an important risk factor
Pterygia are more common in people with substantial time outdoors. Long-term ultraviolet exposure is an important risk factor, while dry, dusty, sandy or windy environments can contribute to chronic surface irritation.
You cannot diagnose the cause of a red or raised area by appearance alone. An optometrist can examine the area under magnification, check whether the cornea is involved and compare its appearance over time.
It is also not a cancer and does not spread to other parts of the body. It can, however, grow towards the centre of the cornea and may affect vision.
Protecting the eyes outdoors
A practical UV-protection routine
Check the label
Choose sunglasses that comply with AS/NZS 1067.1. Categories 2 and 3 are common general-purpose choices; category 4 must not be used for driving.
Choose coverage
Close-fitting, wraparound or larger frames help reduce UV entering from the side. Dark tint alone does not prove UV protection.
Add a hat
A broad-brimmed hat works with sunglasses to reduce sunlight reaching the eyes from above and around the frame.
For more help with fit, lens categories and driving restrictions, see our sunglasses and UV eye protection guide or explore prescription sunglasses.
Assessment and management
What happens at an eye check?
We can ask about irritation, outdoor exposure and changes you have noticed; check vision; and examine the eye surface and pterygium under magnification. If monitoring is appropriate, photographs or measurements may help document change, depending on the examination and available records.
Management depends on size, symptoms, growth and effect on the cornea or vision. UV protection and lubricating drops may be suggested for comfort in some cases. Prescription drops should only be used on clinical advice.
If the pterygium is growing, affecting vision or causing persistent problems, referral to an ophthalmologist may be appropriate. Surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist; Reservoir Spectacles can assess the eye and arrange referral when indicated.
Do not assume every red eye is pterygium
When to seek help sooner
Arrange prompt assessment for increasing redness or pain, light sensitivity, discharge, a rapidly changing appearance, or any change in vision. A sudden painful red eye, chemical exposure, penetrating injury or sudden vision loss needs urgent care.
Australian patient information
Sources used for this guide
See the Victorian Government’s Better Health Channel pterygium guide, Cancer Council guidance on protecting your eyes from the sun, and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital’s pterygium information.
Eye checks in Reservoir
Have a new or changing growth checked.
Book a routine eye check if you have noticed a fleshy area, recurring irritation or a gradual change. Call promptly if pain or vision changes are present.