Living in sunny Long Beach, CA, means enjoying beautiful weather year-round, but it also comes with increased exposure to UV rays and dry coastal winds—both of which can lead to a common eye condition known as pterygium. Often called “surfer’s eye,” pterygium is a benign growth that develops on the surface of the eye and, if left untreated, can interfere with vision.
At SoCal Eye, a trusted ophthalmology provider in Long Beach since 1964, pterygium is one of the most frequently treated eye conditions. Our experienced specialists offer advanced diagnosis, treatment, and surgical options for patients suffering from this sun-related condition.
What Is Pterygium?
Pterygium is a fleshy, wedge-shaped growth of conjunctival tissue that begins on the white part of the eye (sclera) and may extend onto the cornea. It often forms on the inner (nasal) side of the eye but can also appear on the outer edge.
While pterygium is non-cancerous, it can cause significant discomfort, redness, and—in more advanced cases—vision impairment.
What Causes Pterygium?
The leading cause of pterygium is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Other contributing factors include:
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Dry or dusty environments
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Chronic eye irritation
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Wind and sand exposure
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Outdoor occupations or hobbies (surfing, boating, construction)
This explains why pterygium is especially common in Southern California, including Long Beach, where outdoor lifestyles and year-round sun exposure are the norm.
Symptoms of Pterygium
Many people with mild pterygium don’t notice symptoms at first. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
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Redness or inflammation
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A gritty or burning sensation in the eye
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A visible growth on the white part of the eye
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Blurred vision or astigmatism (if the cornea is affected)
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Foreign body sensation or dry eyes
A mild pterygium will not go away on its own, even if you reduce sun or environmental exposure. However, you can slow or stop its progression and manage symptoms by minimizing the contributing factors.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with an ophthalmologist. At SoCal Eye in Long Beach, our specialists can accurately diagnose the severity of your pterygium and recommend the most effective course of treatment.
How Is Pterygium Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made during a comprehensive eye exam using a slit lamp microscope. This allows the ophthalmologist to assess the size, location, and progression of the pterygium.
In some cases, additional imaging or corneal topography may be used to determine if the growth is affecting the shape of the cornea or impacting vision.
Treatment Options for Pterygium
At SoCal Eye, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options depending on the severity of the condition:
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment
For mild cases, symptoms can be managed with:
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Lubricating eye drops
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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UV-protective sunglasses
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Avoiding environmental irritants like wind, dust, or smoke
Surgical Pterygium Removal
If the growth causes significant discomfort, cosmetic concern, or affects vision, surgical removal may be recommended. The pterygium removal procedure is a relatively quick (30-45 mins) outpatient surgery performed under local anesthesia. It’s designed to remove the growth and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Why Choose SoCal Eye in Long Beach for Pterygium Treatment?
SoCal Eye has been a leading provider of eye care in Long Beach, CA, for over 50 years. Our board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing and treating pterygium with a patient-centered approach that combines medical expertise and cutting-edge technology.
We understand the impact that Southern California’s environment can have on eye health. That’s why we emphasize prevention, early detection, and customized treatment plans for each patient.
Preventing Pterygium in Southern California
Prevention is key—especially in sunny regions like Long Beach. You can reduce your risk of developing pterygium by:
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Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses with side protection
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Using wide-brimmed hats
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Keeping your eyes lubricated in dry or windy conditions
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Avoiding unnecessary exposure to airborne irritants
Book a Pterygium Consultation in Long Beach, CA
If you’re experiencing eye irritation, redness, or suspect you have a pterygium, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with the expert ophthalmologists at SoCal Eye in Long Beach today. Our team is here to provide advanced, compassionate care to help you protect and preserve your vision. Make an appointment today by calling (562) 531-2020 or Online
