Pinguecula vs Pterygium - What is the Difference?

Pinguecula is a small, raised yellowish or white growth on the conjunctiva (white part of the eye). While it can occur on either side of the eye (inner or outer), it is limited to the conjunctiva and does not progress onto the cornea (the eye’s clear surface). 

1. A pinguecula contains deposits of fat, protein, or calcium. 
2. Mostly, this condition does not affect vision. However, in severe cases, it may interfere with how tears cover your eye. 
3. Pinguecula eye treatment does not usually include surgery.

Pterygium, also known as a surfer's eye, is a raised, wedge-shaped fleshy growth of the conjunctiva that may develop in one or both eyes. 

1. Pterygium often starts as a pinguecula. It starts in the inner corner of the eye and moves towards the iris. 
2. It can remain small or proliferate to extend over the cornea. 
3. Pterygium usually does not cause any symptoms. However, when it grows, it may feel uncomfortable and affect vision.  

The primary difference between pinguecula vs pterygium is that:

1. Pterygium is much more obvious than pinguecula as the former grows on the cornea, whereas a pinguecula does not progress onto the cornea. 
2. Unlike a pinguecula, a pterygium has blood vessels and comes in different colours like red, pink, white, or yellow. 
3. Furthermore, a pinguecula is not harmful to your vision. However, a pterygium can affect vision if it proliferates. 

The symptoms and causes of these eye conditions are more or less similar. The following table compares the symptoms and causes of pinguecula vs pterygium:

The diagnosis and treatment of pinguecula vs pterygium are as follows:

Although pinguecula and pterygium are not dangerous conditions, it is always better to protect them to avoid any discomfort. The following are some tips to prevent the development of these eye conditions:

1. Wear brimmed hats and wraparound sunglasses with UV protection when outside, even when it is cloudy, raining, or snowing. 
2. Wear protective eyewear while working in a dusty or dry environment. 
3. Use artificial tears to keep the eyes moist and reduce inflammation and irritation. 
4. Regularly observe changes in the appearance of the eye. 

It is recommended to consult a doctor if a pterygium or pinguecula is causing symptoms such as:

1. Redness and irritation.
2. You notice vision changes.
3. The conditions do not improve with medications.
4. If the condition proliferates. 

In addition, it is also recommended to consult a doctor if the pterygium or pinguecula is affecting the cosmetic appearance of the eye. In general, it is always best to consult with an eye doctor if you have any concerns about your eye health.

Prevention is the gold standard in reducing the chances of pinguecula and pterygium. It is important to wear sunglasses for eye protection from UV rays, wind, dust, smoke, and other environmental elements. Since these conditions usually do not cause symptoms, they do not require treatment in most cases. However, when they do cause discomfort, certain management techniques can help you relieve symptoms. 

If you have any more doubts about pinguecula vs pterygium or are suffering from the symptoms mentioned above, contact an HexaHealth expert TODAY! Our team will help you diagnose the condition and discuss the available treatment options. Furthermore, we will connect you with the right surgeon at the right hospital in case you need surgery to remove a pinguecula or pterygium.