Conjunctival pterygium is also known as "surfer's eye," and for
good reason. Caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight and irritation
from sand, wind, and other irritants such as seawater, a conjunctival
pterygium is damage to the mucous membrane of the eyeball that
eventually grows a fleshy membrane. Though the membrane itself is
benign, it can impair vision if left untreated, and can cause a burning,
itching sensation. This condition is common in people who spend a lot
of time outdoors, and especially in surfers. Read on for some eye safety
tips to keep in mind before hitting the surf.
Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses
The number one way to help prevent surfer's eye is to wear
sunglasses that protect against both UVA and UVB rays 100 percent.
Regular sunglasses without UV protection won't keep your eyes safe. It's
important to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days, as clouds do not
actually block the UV radiation. Wrap-around sunglasses provide the best
protection.
Wear Eye Protection While Surfing
It is important to keep your eyes safe while you are on your
board. There are a variety of goggles available, many of which offer UV
protection. This will serve the purpose of protecting your eyes from the
sun while also protecting them from the saltwater, wind, and sand that
are part of the surfing experience. Getting well-fitted, high-quality
eye protection gear is a worthy investment for any serious surfer.
Wash Your Face after Surfing
After getting in from the beach, wash your face with warm water.
This will help flush any irritating particles out of your eyes and off
of your skin.
Keep Your Eyes Moisturized
One of the causes of pterygium is dry eyes. If you notice your
eyes are dry and itchy after a day out at the beach, use eye
moisturizers, such as artificial tears, to keep them well-lubricated.
Wear a Hat
For added protection, when you're out of the ocean and on to the
beach, wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your eyes from the sun. It is
also a good idea to seek shade whenever possible during the brightest
hours of the day.
Stick With Fresh Air
When it comes to keeping your eyes safe, humidity can actually
be a good thing. Dry air can dry out your eyes. While indoors, let in
fresh air as often as possible. Don't let the air get too dry,
especially when using air conditioning. A tip for adding some moisture
to the air without turning on a humidifier is to set bowls of water
around the house.
Wash Your Face Regularly
It's not enough to rinse your face off in the shower, and you
shouldn't just scrub it down after a trip to the beach. Get into the
habit of using a washcloth and mild soap to briefly wash your face every
day. This will help keep your eyes clean and moisturized.
You don't have to be a surfer to get surfer's eye, but it does
increase your chances. The sun, sand, and waves are trademarks of the
beach, but they are also the leading causes of eye irritation. Being
vigilant about eye protection is the best way to stop the problem before
it starts. Always keep your eyes protected when outdoors, both on the
shore and in the waves, and keep them moisturized whether indoors or
out. Following these tips will help you maintain your eye safety no
matter how much time you spend in the sun.
