Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)

Pterygium, commonly known as Surfer’s Eye, is a noncancerous growth of tissue that develops on the conjunctiva, the thin, clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye. The growth usually starts on the side of the eye closest to the nose and may slowly extend onto the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.

Although pterygium is not cancerous, it can become larger over time and may cause irritation, redness, a persistent feeling of something in the eye, and blurred vision if it begins to cover the cornea. In more advanced cases, it can change the shape of the cornea, leading to astigmatism and reduced visual clarity.

Pterygium is most commonly linked to long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) sunlight, which is why it is frequently seen in people who spend a great deal of time outdoors. Wind, dust, dry climates, and other environmental irritants can also contribute to its development. For this reason, the condition is especially common among surfers, boaters, construction workers, gardeners, athletes, and others who regularly work or enjoy activities outside.

While some pterygia remain small and stable for many years, others gradually grow and begin to affect comfort or vision. Regular eye examinations allow your ophthalmologist to monitor the growth and recommend treatment if it becomes symptomatic or threatens your vision.

With early diagnosis and appropriate care, most people with pterygium can effectively manage symptoms, protect their eye health, and maintain clear, comfortable vision.

Pterygium symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable as the growth extends toward the cornea. While some people experience only mild irritation, others may develop vision changes or ongoing eye discomfort.

The surface of the eye may feel dry and uncomfortable throughout the day.

Vision may become blurry if the growth extends onto the cornea or alters its shape.

The exact cause of pterygium is not completely understood, but long-term exposure to environmental factors is believed to play a major role in its development. Repeated irritation from ultraviolet (UV) sunlight, wind, dust, and dry conditions can cause changes to the conjunctiva, leading to the gradual growth of tissue onto the cornea.

People who spend significant time outdoors are more likely to develop pterygium because of increased exposure to sunlight and harsh environmental conditions. While anyone can develop the condition, protecting your eyes from UV rays and environmental irritants may help reduce the risk.

Common causes and contributing factors include:

• Long-Term UV Exposure – Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet sunlight is considered the leading cause of pterygium.
• Frequent Sunlight Exposure – Spending extended time outdoors increases cumulative damage to the eye’s surface.
• Wind Exposure – Wind can dry and irritate the eyes, contributing to chronic surface inflammation.
• Dust and Airborne Particles – Dust, sand, and debris may repeatedly irritate the conjunctiva.
• Dry Environmental Conditions – Dry climates and low humidity can increase eye surface irritation.
• Chronic Eye Irritation – Ongoing irritation and inflammation may contribute to abnormal tissue growth.

Because Southern California experiences abundant sunshine, dry weather, and outdoor recreation year-round, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and protecting your eyes from environmental irritants can help reduce the risk of developing pterygium.

While anyone can develop pterygium, certain lifestyle and environmental factors can significantly increase the risk. People who spend long hours outdoors without adequate eye protection are generally more likely to develop this condition over time.

Surfing, boating, and similar activities expose the eyes to intense reflected UV rays.

People who have had pterygium before have a higher risk of recurrence.

Visual acuity testing helps identify any vision changes associated with the pterygium.

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