Pterygium or Pugita: Can it still be treated?

Published on: December 14, 2021

Do you have a fleshy growth on the white of your eye that seems to be growing across your cornea? Does it constantly feel a little itchy or like there is something stuck in your eye? You might have pterygium.

Pterygium, more commonly known as pugita in Filipino, is often characterized by pink, fleshy tissue on the white part of the eye. It usually starts to grow from the corner of your eye and eventually covers the cornea. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface on the front of the eye.

According to Asian Eye Institute Cornea and External Disease Specialist Dr. Sharlene Noguera, pterygium is likened to an octopus or pugita because of its shape. It can often look like an octopus growing on the eye. “Sometimes, it can grow so big that it can obstruct your vision. You may have a hard time seeing and doing your daily tasks, and it can also distort the shape of your cornea, leading to astigmatism.”

Astigmatism is a type of refractive error. Because of pterygium, the normally even round shape of the cornea becomes imperfect, causing blurry vision whether you are reading from your mobile phone, on a desktop or looking far while driving.

Usually linked to prolonged sun exposure, pterygium often develops in people who live in tropical climates like the Philippines and are often exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Dr. Noguera shares, “This condition is more likely seen in men between 20 to 40 years old and those spend a lot of time outdoors, such as farmers, fishermen, welders, traffic enforcers, construction workers, surfers and seafarers.”

The primary source of UV rays is the sun. However, it can also be reflected off surfaces like water, sand and streets. There are also artificial sources like tanning beds and welding machines.

“Patients with pterygium usually experience eye redness, excessive tearing, eye dryness and itching,” she says, “Some would even complain of feeling like having sand in their eye. To relieve them of these symptoms, we would recommend them to use eye lubricants or artificial tears. Those in advanced cases may undergo surgery, so they can continue to be productive.”

In some cases, pterygium recurs. A procedure called conjunctival autograft can be done to prevent this from happening. This procedure has been proven safe and effective in removing the growth and markedly decreasing its chance from recurring.

Since the Philippines is a tropical country, Dr. Noguera advises patients to always protect their eyes from the sun and other sources of UV rays. “Make sure to wear a pair of UV-protected eyewear. Aside from sunglasses, UV-coated contact lenses or prescription glasses are now available. This ensures that your eyewear can block 100% of UV rays. Get it from a reputable shop, and wear it even on cloudy days.”

It also pays to consider the setting, altitude and time when going out. She adds, “UV rays are stronger between 10AM to 2PM. UV levels are also greater in high places like mountains and those with wide open spaces like beaches. If you must go out during these times or will go to these places, make sure your eyes are protected.”

A yearly visit to your ophthalmologist will also be good to monitor the condition of the eyes. She explains, “There are a lot of eye conditions that don’t have early warning signs. Early cases of pterygium must also be monitored.”

Good news! Get 20% off on pterygium removal when you undergo surgery within two (2) weeks after your comprehensive eye exam. Asian Eye is located at Phinma Plaza in Rockwell Center, Makati with satellite clinics in TriNoma, Mall of Asia and Commercenter Alabang. For more information, call us at 898-2020 or email us at [email protected].

Click the link to learn more about our current promos and discounts.

Asian Eye’s Dr. Robert Ang Wins Gold Medal at Cataract Olympics

At the recent American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting on April 8, 2024, Dr. Robert Ang of Asian Eye was awarded a prestigious Gold medal in the Cataract Olympics for his video presentation titled “Cataract Technology Hurdles.”

Held in Boston, Massachusetts, USA from April 05 to 08, 2024, the annual meeting featured the participation of outstanding ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from across the globe. The Cataract Olympics symposium provided a platform for teams from leading organizations such as ASCRS, APACRS, ESCRS, and LASCRS to showcase their expertise and compete in various cataract categories making Dr. Ang’s achievement even more remarkable.

Dr. Ang’s award-winning video focused on the critical aspect of astigmatism correction during cataract surgery and offered valuable insights into using Toric (astigmatism) IOLs. His impressive win coincides with Cataract Awareness Month this June, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cataracts and educating the public about available treatment options.

This video competition not only showcases the expertise and skills of specialists like Dr. Ang but also provides a platform for sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas with doctors worldwide regarding new technologies and surgical techniques. By leveraging the power of visual media, these educational resources help advance the field of cataract surgery and benefit patients globally.

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition, where the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Sometimes, it feels like looking at a fogged-up glass. If not treated, it can lead to blindness. Fortunately, surgery can be done to remove it. The ophthalmologist will remove the lens with cataract and replace it with an IOL. There are different kinds of IOLs available, all designed to improve vision.

Asian Eye takes great pride in the exceptional skills and expertise of their esteemed medical team, exemplified by the contributions of Dr. Robert Ang. Dedicated to providing patients with the highest standard of care, patients can have peace of mind when it comes to cataract surgery and other vision-related procedures at Asian Eye.

For more information about Dr. Robert Ang and the advanced ophthalmological services offered at Asian Eye, please visit www.asianeyeinstitute.com.

Cataract Awareness Month: Reclaim Your Freedom, Restore Your Sight

June is Cataract Awareness Month, and as a leading eye center in the Philippines, Asian Eye aims to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of cataract screenings and drive more individuals to seek timely treatment for cataracts. Cataracts are a common concern among older Filipinos and one of the major causes of visual impairment. According to the Philippine Eye Research Institute, there are 1.18 million people suffering from cataracts, with roughly 400,000 needing surgery.

Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can lead to symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare. It can lead to blindness if left untreated, so it’s essential to have them removed when they begin to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, watching TV, or cooking.

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. Laser cataract surgery offers several advantages over traditional surgery, and Asian Eye is proud to offer patients with cutting-edge solutions for their eye care needs.

Asian Eye utilizes VICTUS Femtolaser technology from the renowned German brand Bausch + Lomb. This advanced technology is able to break up and remove the cloudy lens using significantly less energy, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues and promoting quicker healing.

Regular visits to your eye doctor are paramount, as they can advise you on the timing of the surgery and explain the benefits and risks involved. If you have an elderly loved one who complains of cloudy or blurry vision, consider giving them the gift of sight with the following Cataract Screening and Surgery deals:

40% off for one (1) cataract screening

50% off for two (2) or more cataract screenings

20% off on cataract surgery

*if scheduled within one (1) week after the screening or deposit is given within (2) weeks

It’s important to make informed decisions with a trusted eye care specialist and to book an appointment with Asian Eye to take proactive steps towards better vision and eye health.

Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati with satellite offices located in TriNoma, Quezon City, and Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For inquiries and appointments, you may call 8898- 2020 or send an email to [email protected].

Dr. Robert Ang Recognized as one of the Top 100 in “The Power List 2024” by The Ophthalmologist

Dr. Robert Edward Ang, a distinguished specialist in Cataract, Glaucoma, and Cornea and Refractive Surgery (LASIK) at the Asian Eye Institute, has been honored once again by The Ophthalmologist Magazine in its prestigious 2024 Power List as one of the top 100 most influential eye care professionals in the world. Dr. Ang, notably the only Filipino listed, reaffirms his status with this second recognition. The first time he was listed in the top 100 was in 2018, highlighting his sustained contributions and leadership in the global ophthalmology community.

About Dr. Robert Edward Ang

As the Director of the Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service at the Asian Eye Institute, Dr. Ang is celebrated for his expertise in LASIK surgery and his pioneering research on technologies that enhance the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. As the Director for Research and Training, his collaborative work with leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies has led to innovations in cataract intraocular lenses, presbyopic laser treatments, and minimally invasive glaucoma devices.

His accolades include multiple Best Paper of Session Awards from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the Certified Educator Award from the Asia Pacific Association of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (APACRS), the Presidential Recognition Award from the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS), the Geminiano de Ocampo Outstanding Researcher in Ophthalmology Award from the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Senior Achievement Award from the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO).

Dr. Ang’s consistent recognition on such a significant global platform not only underscores his dedication and skill but also serves as an inspiration to current and aspiring ophthalmologists worldwide. His achievements continue to showcase the excellence and innovation present in Philippine medical practices.

Explore and Connect

Dr. Robert Ang has ongoing research projects on cataract, glaucoma, refractive lenses and laser eye surgery. To learn more about Dr. Ang’s impactful work and explore if, as a patient, you would like to be part of the pioneering research and eye care services at the Asian Eye Institute, please visit our website at asianeyeinstitute.com. For appointments, please refer to the contact details below:

ROCKWELL (Main Clinic)

8th, 9th, and 10th Floors, PHINMA Plaza

Rockwell Center, Makati City

LANDLINE (02) 8-898-2020

MOBILE 0918-898-2020

EMAIL [email protected]

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