Pinguecula Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Pinguecula Definition
Pinguecula is a growth of a benign lump on the conjunctiva of the eye. The conjunctiva is a thin layer that lines the white part of the eye.
Pinguecula can appear in anyone and at any age. However, this condition is more common in middle-aged and elderly people.
Because it is benign, pinguecula basically does not endanger the lives of people who have it. This disease usually does not need to be removed, unless it is felt to interfere with vision. However, the pinguecula that has been removed can reappear.
Pinguecula Symptoms
Pinguecula has a distinctive appearance, which is yellowish in color and has a triangular shape. Pinguecula grows from the edge of the eye or the middle of the eye towards the center so that it can cover the cornea. The cornea is a transparent layer that lines the pupil (the center of the eye) and the iris (the colored part of the eye).
In some cases, pinguecula can be large. However, this is quite rare and growth tends to be slow.
In addition to growths in the eye area, pinguecula can cause eye problems. Eyes can feel dry, lumpy, irritated, red and swollen. If the growth has reached the cornea to the pupil, the patient’s vision can also be disturbed.
Pinguecula Reason
Pinguecula consists of fat, calcium or both. The exact cause is still unknown until now. However, pinguecula is often associated with several factors. These factors include exposure to sunlight, dust or wind.
Pinguecula is more common in older people. However, it cannot be ascertained that this condition is caused by old age.
Pinguecula Diagnosis
Usually, the doctor will be able to determine the diagnosis of pinguecula through a physical examination of the eye. Doctors will be able to immediately recognize a pinguecula by its appearance. An eye vision examination is also important as an indication for action.
Pinguecula Treatment
Not all cases of pinguecula require treatment. Usually, cases that require treatment are when the pinguecula is felt to be bothering the patient, causing eye complaints, even to the point of disturbing the sufferer’s vision. Sometimes, action is also taken because sufferers feel their appearance is disturbed.
At first, this condition can be overcome by using eye drops, to reduce red and irritated eyes. If it is still bothersome, the patient can request that the pinguecula be removed surgically.
Pinguecula Prevention
Some actions that are believed to prevent pinguecula include:
- avoid too much sun exposure. If you have a hobby or job that exposes you to the sun a lot, you should use glasses that have sun protection.
- use artificial tears/eye drops so that the eyes do not dry out.
- Stop smoking, as this can make pinguecula symptoms worse