What Is a Pinguecula?

Although you’ve probably never heard of a pinguecula, it is actually more common than you might think.

A pinguecula is a pale yellowish and benign growth on the eye’s conjunctiva (the thin, transparent membrane covering the outer surface of the eye). Pingueculae tend to be triangular or round in shape and are slightly raised. If they protrude too much, they can cause eye irritation, redness, and other symptoms.

If you suspect you have a pinguecula, Professional VisionCare in Lewis Center can help.

What Can Cause a Pinguecula?

Not all causes of these growths have been determined, but we know that overexposure to sunlight, wind, and other harsh elements contributes to their formation. These factors have been linked to changes in the conjunctiva, and cause the deposit of either fat, calcium, or protein to form a pinguecula.

In fact, people who live near the equator are more likely to develop pingueculae than those who don’t, due to the sun’s powerful rays in those areas of the globe.

Pingueculae are also more common in older people.

What Are Common Symptoms?

A person with a pinguecula may experience any of the following symptoms, usually only in the affected eye:

Dry eyes
Gritty eyes
Red eyes
Itchy or burning eyes
Blurred vision
Swollen eyes

Do They Require Treatment?

In most cases, a pinguecula develops with age and doesn’t require any treatment.

However, if your pinguecula is causing you trouble, it may be time to visit your eye doctor. Your eye doctor will prescribe eye drops or ointments to help soothe your eyes and relieve the redness and swelling.

In severe cases, the pinguecula may need to be surgically removed, but know that it could grow back after surgery.

We Are Here for All Your Eye Care Needs

If you have a pinguecula, it’s important to have regular eye exams to ensure that the growth isn’t interfering with your vision and eye health.

At Professional VisionCare in Lewis Center, we offer a wide range of eye care services to keep your eyes feeling and looking great. To schedule your next comprehensive eye exam, call us today!

At Professional VisionCare, we put your family’s needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 614-898-9989 or book an appointment online to see one of our Lewis Center eye doctors.

Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Amy R. Lay

Q: Can you request lenses made from glass? Is glass still used for lenses?

A: Yes. Opticians still sometimes use glass for lenses. However, glass is not used very often because they aren’t as safe. If these glass lenses breaks, they can shatters into many pieces and can injure the eye. Glass lenses are much heavier than plastic lenses, so they can make your eyeglasses less comfortable to wear.

Q: Can a coating be added to eyeglasses to protect them from further scratches?

A: A protective coating can’t be added to a lens after it’s scratched. The coating is applied when the lens is manufactured and can’t be put on later.

Quality Frames For Prescription Eyeglasses & Computer Glasses In Lewis Center, Ohio. Visit Professional VisionCare for an eye exam and eyeglasses that match your style.