Pterygium/Stye

Pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue (has blood vessels) that may start as a pinguecula. It can remain small or grow large enough to cover part of the cornea. It is often called "surfer's eye" because it is strongly linked to prolonged exposure to sun, wind, and sand. Symptoms include redness, itching, dryness, and a gritty feeling, and in advanced cases, it can cause blurred or double vision and lead to blindness if left untreated. Treatment involves removal through surgery, especially if it affects vision or is causing discomfort.  

A stye (or hordeolum) is an inflamed oil gland on the margin of the eyelid at the level of the eyelashes or in the midportion of the eyelid. It appears as a red, swollen nodule that resembles a pimple in appearance. It is sometimes tender in its acute presentation, especially to the touch.

Styes may be treated by applying warm compresses to the eyelid several times per day. This helps to accelerate drainage of the lesion. Antibiotic ointments or drops with concomitant steroid may help styes resolve more quickly. Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is necessary to chronicle regression and monitor side effects from medications. If the stye has been longstanding or manifests as a chalazion, incision and drainage may be required.