As optometrists, we encounter a variety of ocular conditions affecting people's vision and eye health. One such condition we frequently see on the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads is pterygium, also known as surfer's eye.
A pterygium is a benign (non-cancerous) growth that forms on the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye, and can eventually extend onto the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. Pterygiums are usually visible as a pink or flesh-coloured, fibrovascular growth. They often have a 'wing' shape, which is where the name pterygium originates, from the Greek word for "wing".
This condition is often associated with prolonged exposure to the sun, wind, and dry, dusty environments. Ultraviolet (UV) light, especially from the sun, is a major contributing factor. Hence, it is quite prevalent among individuals spending significant amounts of time outdoors, such as surfers or skiers, which is why it’s commonly referred to as "surfer's eye". This is also why we see so many of them on the Gold Coast, one of the surfing capitals of the world.
While a small pterygium might not cause any problems, as it grows, it can cause discomfort, redness, inflammation, and in severe cases, it can distort the shape of the cornea, leading to a condition known as astigmatism that affects your vision.
Now, let’s talk about prevention, as being a coastal community, we do very much take advantage of an outdoor lifestyle. Given that pterygiums are associated with UV light exposure, the number one strategy to prevent them is by protecting your eyes from the sun. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are not just a fashion accessory; they are a necessity, especially if you spend considerable time outside. Ensure that they block both UVA and UVB rays.
Wide-brimmed hats can offer additional protection, further shielding your eyes from direct and reflected sunlight. If you are in extremely bright environments, like at the beach or fishing, wearing wrap-around sunglasses can provide additional protection by covering the side of your eyes. In dry and windy conditions, wearing protective eyewear can also help. Regular use of artificial tears can help keep your eyes lubricated if they are prone to dryness. 
As you would expect, maintaining a healthy lifestyle also contributes to overall eye health. Making sure you have a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration can support your body in maintaining healthy tissues, including the conjunctiva where pterygium first form.
While prevention is crucial, it is equally important for you to have regular eye examinations. Early detection of conditions like pterygium can help us manage them more effectively and prevent potential vision issues for you down the track. Our team of optometrists can't stress enough the importance of booking in for these regular check-ups to monitor your vision needs.
As we live on the coast, it's important to be aware of pterygium and its prevention strategies so you can maintain your vision's quality and comfort, while continuing to enjoy your outdoor leisure activities. After all, your eyes are the window to your world, and it's worth taking the time to keep them clear. Remember: the world is bright and beautiful. Protect your eyes and enjoy the view!