[Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic] National Wrestling Coach Ahn Han-bong Visits / Ahn Han-bong, Wrestling Gold Medalist / Eye Care for Athletes / What is Pterygium?

Hello everyone.

Lately, our country has been hit by summer with its recurring bad weather and high humidity.

Just stepping outside for a moment leaves you feeling sticky all over,

and I can't shake off this feeling.

The humidity from wearing masks further intensifies this stickiness,

making the summer of 2020 feel particularly difficult.

For those with poor eyesight,

the combination of summer humidity + glasses + mask must be even more challenging.

On such a hot summer day,

wrestling gold medalist and national team coach Ahn Han-bong

and his family visited Gangnam Smile Eye Clinic for an eye examination.

Wrestling is a sport where athletes are in physical contact with their opponents throughout the match to determine the winner.

Maintaining good eyesight is just as important as maintaining good physical fitness.

On this day, the eye examination revealed that Coach Ahn Han-bong's eyes were showing

some progression of presbyopia,

and a small pterygium was developing in his left eye.

It wasn't severe enough to require immediate surgery, so we decided to monitor its progress for now.

For middle-aged individuals over 40, it's advisable to visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year

to check their eye condition, isn't it?

Since some of you might be unfamiliar with the eye condition called pterygium,

I will explain its definition, causes, symptoms, and prevention methods.

What is Pterygium?

Pterygium is a condition where fibrovascular tissue of the conjunctiva proliferates, starting from the inner conjunctiva of the eye and growing across the limbus (the border between the conjunctiva and cornea) towards the center of the cornea.

Causes of Pterygium

Pterygium is often caused by environmental factors such as strong ultraviolet rays, dust, and dry air.

Symptoms of Pterygium

In most cases, there are no symptoms in the early stages of pterygium. However, as the pterygium grows,

symptoms such as redness, irritation, and changes in vision appear.

As the pterygium grows towards the center of the cornea, astigmatism increases, leading to decreased vision.

Pterygium Treatment

Surgery is performed if eye irritation is severe or if the pterygium invades the pupil, causing vision loss. In early stages, surgical treatment is not necessary, and if irritating symptoms like a foreign body sensation are felt, eye drops such as artificial tears can be helpful.

Pterygium Prevention Methods

Wearing sunglasses to block UV rays is essential in places with strong direct sunlight, such as beaches, to prevent pterygium.

While the importance of vision is evident in many aspects of life for the general public,

for athletes, the importance of vision is even greater.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pterygium?

Pterygium is a condition where fibrovascular tissue of the conjunctiva proliferates, starting from the inner conjunctiva of the eye and growing towards the center of the cornea. In its early stages, there may be no symptoms, but as it progresses, it can cause redness, irritation, and changes in vision.

Why does pterygium occur?

The main causes of pterygium are environmental factors such as strong ultraviolet rays, dust, and dry air. It is more likely to occur when the eyes are continuously exposed to these external stimuli.

What symptoms appear if pterygium develops?

In the early stages of pterygium, most people experience no symptoms. However, as the pterygium grows, symptoms such as redness, irritation, and changes in vision may appear. If it invades the center of the cornea, it can lead to increased astigmatism and decreased vision.

How is pterygium treated?

Surgery is performed for pterygium if eye irritation is severe or if it invades the pupil, causing vision loss. In early stages, surgical treatment is not necessary, and if irritating symptoms like a foreign body sensation are felt, eye drops such as artificial tears can be helpful.

Are there ways to prevent pterygium?

Yes, pterygium can be prevented. Wearing sunglasses to block UV rays is essential in places with strong direct sunlight, such as beaches, as it is the most effective prevention method.

How often should one get an eye exam?

For middle-aged individuals over 40, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year to check their eye condition. Especially for eye conditions like presbyopia or pterygium, early detection and management through regular check-ups are crucial.