Pinguecula: What is this eye condition?

Medically reviewed by Tina Patel, Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts on 26 July 2023.

A pinguecula is a relatively harmless eye condition that is mostly cosmetic, but it can cause some discomfort for the sufferer. It is usually permanent, but manageable with lifestyle changes and a robust eye care routine.

In this article we will explore methods of managing and treating pinguecula with pinguecula lifestyle tips for people who suffer with this eye condition.

What is pinguecula?

Pinguecula is characterised by a small growth on the conjunctiva, the thin surface layer of the eye. These growths are made up of protein tissue and are usually pale yellow in colour. They most commonly form on the inner corner of the eyes, rather than the outer sides, usually adjacent to the iris (coloured part of the eye). They can be present in both eyes.

Pinguecula is not cancerous like eye melanoma, retinoblastoma or other types of eye cancer. Instead, these small growths are benign and do not require urgent medical attention. Most people can live with pinguecula without suffering from other symptoms.

Signs, symptoms and diagnosis

The signs and symptoms of pinguecula are usually only cosmetic, however a person who has been diagnosed with pinguecula might experience some discomfort. The range of signs and symptoms include:

• A yellowish growth on the conjunctiva
• Changes in appearance (of the eye)
• Symptoms in one or both eyes, or multiple growths in the same eye
• Redness
• Irritation

Pinguecula can sometimes be mistaken for a condition called pterygium which is commonly believed to be a more severe development of pinguecula as it interferes with blood vessels in the eye and can lead to vision loss.

Pingueculitis is the term given to a case of pinguecula when there is inflammation in the eye due to the pinguelcula growth spreading to the tear duct. Further symptoms of pingueculitis include typical dry eye symptoms such as:

• Burning sensation
• Gritty feeling in the eyes
• Itchy eyes

To diagnose pinguecula, you must attend an appointment with a GP or an eye specialist who can perform an examination of the front structures of the eye using a microscope. Since the symptoms of pinguecula can be relatively similar to other eye conditions which may be more severe, it is always recommended to consult a qualified eye specialist.

What causes pinguecula?

The causes of pinguecula are widely attributed to over-exposure to sun, wind and dust. The full range of risk factors are:

• Long-term exposure to UV light (especially around reflective surfaces – e.g. snow, lakes, white sand)
• Eye irritants (e.g. wind, dust, debris)
• Age

Pinguecula can turn into pterygium if it is not managed effectively. Both conditions are sometimes referred to as ‘surfer’s eye’ due to the typical environmental conditions that are associated with developing this type of eye condition, which are also associated with surfing.

People who spend a lot of time outdoors for work or for leisure (like surfing, boating or skiing) are most at risk of developing pinguecula.

Treatment and management options for pinguecula

Pinguecula is not dangerous and does not pose any real threat to vision, so pinguecula surgery is rarely recommended by an eye health professional, and treatment options for pinguecula usually target symptoms rather than the condition itself. Pinguecula removal is a delicate procedure that comes with higher risks than the condition’s symptoms.

Any subsequent eye discomfort experienced as a result of pinguecula can be managed with artificial tears, gels or ointments that might be prescribed by your doctor. Treatment options for pinguecula can lubricate the eyes and soothe discomfort as well as help to prevent additional complications.

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If pinguecula develops into pingueculitis or pterygium, there are greater risks to vision and the symptoms may be more painful. In these cases, topical steroid drops may be offered to patients to control the inflammation. The best way to manage existing pinguecula so that it does not spread is to exercise preventative measures against the causes of pinguecula.

Preventive measures and lifestyle tips

The most effective way to protect your eyes from developing pinguecula is to ensure that you use proper eye protection against the elements – such as sunlight, wind and dust. Wrap-around style sunglasses offer the best protection against all of these. It’s important to make sure that they have a UV400 sun protection rating too.

Check out some of the most popular wrap-around sunglasses styles available at Feel Good Contacts.

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What should I do if I suspect I have pinguecula?

If you suspect that you may be at risk of developing pinguecula, it is always best to contact your GP or an eye specialist. Now that you have read this guide to pinguecula, you know that you should look out for a small lump on the white surface of the eyeball.

Although it is quite harmless, if you begin to experience discomfort, pain or irritation in the area, it could be a sign that the condition is spreading or getting worse. Pinguecula prevention measures will play the most helpful role in protecting your eyes.

Once you have booked an appointment with a healthcare professional, you should protect your eyes as best you can with regular use of the correct sunglasses and eye drops to soothe the symptoms. Treatment options for pinguecula are available over-the-counter or for a better price online.