What is pinguecula?
A pinguecula is a common, non-cancerous growth on the conjunctiva (the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye). It typically appears as a yellowish or whitish bump or patch on the conjunctiva, near the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the iris and pupil).
What causes pinguecula?
Pingueculae develop as a normal part of the ageing process and most people by the age of 70 are likely to have one.
The main cause of a pinguecula is long‑term exposure to UV radiation from the sun. So if you spend a lot of time outside, you’re more likely to develop a pinguecula. Other causes can include chronic irritation from wind or dust.
Treatment for pinguecula
The majority of pinguecula cases don’t require any treatment. If you also experience accompanying symptoms of dry eye syndrome, or it feels like there’s something in your eye, lubricating eye drops can help to relieve symptoms.
