All About Surfer's Eye: Symptoms, Prevention Treatment

Have you ever seen a white stain near the pupil of a fellow surfer's eye? Although named after an athlete, Surfer’s Eye is a common disease that involves abnormal tissue growth within the eye. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about this eye condition and ways to prevent it.  

What Is Surfer's Eye?

Surfer's Eye, also known as Pterygium, is a common eye condition that often affects individuals who spend extended periods in sunny and windy environments. This condition typically presents as a growth on the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. Surfer's Eye can cause irritation, redness, and discomfort for those affected by it.

The growth may start small but can gradually increase in size over time if not addressed. While Surfer's Eye is generally benign and non-cancerous, it can impair vision if it grows large enough to obstruct the cornea. Understanding how this condition develops and learning about preventive measures to protect your eyes while enjoying water sports like surfing is essential.

How It Happens

The development of Surfer's Eye is closely linked to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and irritants like dust or sand.

When UV rays and foreign particles enter the eye, the body's natural response is to protect itself by producing more tissue on the conjunctiva. Over time, this excessive tissue growth can lead to the formation of a raised, fleshy growth on the surface of the eye.

The constant irritation and inflammation caused by these environmental factors can trigger the cells in the conjunctiva to replicate rapidly, resulting in an overgrowth that gradually extends onto the cornea. 

Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms is the appearance of a triangular, yellowish spot on the white part of the eye. This spot may gradually grow over time and cause irritation or a gritty feeling in the eye.

Individuals with Surfer's Eye may also experience redness, inflammation, or swelling in the affected eye. In some cases, there may be blurred vision or a sensation of dryness and discomfort. These symptoms can worsen when exposed to sunlight, wind, dust, or other environmental factors.

If you suspect you have Surfer's Eye based on these symptoms, you must consult an ophthalmologist for proper evaluation and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Risk Factor

Surfer's eye can look scary but it's not a dangerous disease. The growth can stop over time or continue slowly throughout your lifetime. In extreme cases, it can cover up your pupil and cause trouble in seeing clearly. 

Diagnosis

An eye care professional will typically conduct a comprehensive eye examination. This involves using a slit lamp microscope to closely examine the affected area on the conjunctiva or cornea.

During the examination, the healthcare provider may also inquire about your medical history and any symptoms you have been experiencing. It's important to provide detailed information about your surfing habits and exposure to UV rays and environmental elements.

Pinguecula Vs. Pterygium

Pinguecula and Pterygium are both common eye conditions that affect not only surfers but also people who spend their days outside. 

Pinguecula appears as a yellowish bump on the whites of the eyes, usually near the cornea. It is typically harmless but can cause irritation, eye dryness, and discomfort. It contains deposits of protein, fat, or calcium. 

On the other hand, Pterygium is a growth of pink, fleshy tissue over the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white part of your eye). Unlike pinguecula, a pterygium can grow onto the cornea, potentially affecting vision if left untreated. 

Both conditions are often caused by UV exposure, dryness, wind, and dust.

Prevention

As a surfer, you invest a lot in getting quality maintenance supplies and surfboard bags from reliable brands like FARO to make sure your board stays safe. Surfboard protectors like surfboard cases and longboard bags help maintain your boards and protect them from any scratches or cracks. But just keeping your gear safe is not enough; you must ensure you stay on top of your health, too!

One of the most effective ways to prevent surfer’s eye condition is by wearing sunglasses that offer UV protection. These glasses can help shield your eyes from harmful rays and reduce the risk of developing pinguecula or Pterygium. 

Using lubricating eye drops can keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation caused by dryness. It's also important to wear wide-brimmed hats or caps while on the beach to provide extra shade for your eyes. Avoiding prolonged exposure to windy conditions can also help prevent surfer's eye.

Treatment

Treatment for surfer's eye often depends on the severity of the condition. Simple lifestyle changes like wearing sunglasses and using artificial tears may help alleviate symptoms in mild cases. For more complex cases, a healthcare professional may prescribe medical interventions such as steroid eye drops or anti-inflammatory medications.

Surgery

Surgery may be necessary when other treatments fail to provide relief or if the surfer's eye is causing significant vision problems.

During surgery for surfer's eye, the abnormal tissue growth on the eye's surface is typically removed. This can help alleviate discomfort and improve vision.

Different surgical techniques may be used depending on the severity of the condition. Your ophthalmologist will discuss which option is best suited for your specific case.

Recovery time after surgery for surfer's eye varies from person to person, but most individuals can resume normal activities within a few weeks.

Regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor are essential to monitor progress and address any concerns that may arise post-surgery.

Aftercare

After undergoing surgery for surfer's eye, proper aftercare is important to ensure a smooth recovery. The eyes are delicate organs that require gentle handling and protection following any procedure. Your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions tailored to your individual needs:

• Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on the eyes during the initial healing period. 

• Keeping the eyes clean and free from irritants is vital in preventing infections post-surgery. Follow your doctor's guidance on using prescribed eye drops or medications regularly.

• Protecting your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses with adequate coverage can aid in the healing process and prevent future complications.

• Avoid swimming or exposing your eyes to excessive wind or dust until you receive clearance from your eye care provider.

• Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor progress and address any concerns promptly. 

Conclusion

Understanding the symptoms and taking preventive measures, such as wearing protective eyewear and minimizing exposure to harsh environmental conditions, can help manage and reduce the risk of developing this condition. If you notice any changes in your eyes or vision, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, to always stay safe while on the waves!