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What is Pterygium?

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This page provides detailed information about pterygium, commonly known as surfer’s eye, including its origins, risk factors, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures. Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of NJ proudly offers eye care at four convenient locations: Belleville serving Essex County, Rahway serving Middlesex and Union Counties, Jersey City serving Hudson County, and Union serving Union County.

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Dr. Taj Khan, DO, FACS

Dr. Taj G. Khan is a board-certified ophthalmologist and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, with a passion for enhancing both vision and appearance.

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Overview of Pterygium

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How Geography and Lifestyle Influence Risk

What’s especially notable is how strongly its occurrence is linked to geography and environmental exposure. Understanding where pterygium is most common can help patients assess their own risk and take preventive steps.

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Treatment Options for Pterygium

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Risk Factors
and Causes

The exact cause of pterygium isn’t clear, but certain risk factors are well known. Long-term exposure to UV light, along with wind, dust, and dry conditions, are the main contributors.

Here are some key points that explain why pterygium tends to develop:

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Differential Diagnosis

Not every bump on the white of the eye is a pterygium, so it’s important to rule out other similar conditions.

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Surgical Procedure Details

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Benefits and Considerations of Surgery

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Signs, Symptoms, and
Visual Impacts

It’s important to know the signs of a pterygium so you can get help early. Sometimes it’s easy to miss, since it doesn’t always cause discomfort or affect vision right away.

However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

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Preventive Measures
for Pterygium

You can’t always prevent pterygium, but protecting your eyes can lower the risk and slow its growth. Here’s how:

Your Trusted Eye Doctors Serving Central and Northern NJ

Pterygium, or surfer’s eye, is a condition that can lead to vision problems if left untreated. At Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of New Jersey, we understand the importance of early detection and appropriate treatment options to maintain eye health. By considering preventive measures and understanding the risks, you can protect your vision and overall eye comfort. Consult with our experienced eye doctors to learn more about your options. Experience personalized, expert eye care by scheduling an appointment with our eye doctors in Belleville, Jersey City, Rahway, or Union, NJ.

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At Associated Eye Physicians of NJ, we’ve built our reputation on care that’s local, personal, and easy to get to. With offices in Belleville, Union, Jersey City, and Rahway, we’re proud to serve a wide range of communities across North and Central Jersey. Our Belleville team welcomes patients from all over Essex County, including Newark, Bloomfield, and Nutley. Rahway welcomes patients from across Middlesex and Union Counties, including nearby patients from Elizabeth, Avenel, Woodbridge, and Perth Amboy. Our Union office is a favorite for families from Union County, especially for those in Elizabeth and Cranford. And in Jersey City, we care for Hudson County residents, including our neighbors in Hoboken and Bayonne.

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