Corneal Surgery,Patient Education

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Southern California is known for its abundant sunshine, stunning coastlines, and year-round outdoor activities. But while the sun fuels our lifestyle, it also brings hidden risks to your eyes—especially the risk of pterygium, also known as Surfer’s Eye. 

Pterygium is a non-cancerous, fleshy growth that forms on the white part of the eye and can extend toward the cornea. It’s most commonly caused by long-term exposure to UV rays, dry conditions, wind, and airborne irritants like sand or dust. If left untreated, pterygium can lead to chronic eye irritation, cosmetic concerns, and even vision impairment. 

This guide from Eye Care of San Diego offers essential tips for pterygium prevention in Southern California, so you can continue to enjoy the sun—safely. 

Here’s your comprehensive guide to stopping pterygium before it starts in Southern California: 

1. Invest in Proper UV Protection (More Than Just Dark Lenses): 

    • 100% UV-A and UV-B Blocking: Ensure your sunglasses explicitly state they block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Darker lenses don’t automatically mean better protection. 
    • Wrap-Around or Large Frames: Sunlight doesn’t just come from the front. Wrap-around styles or sunglasses with large frames provide crucial protection from light entering the sides, offering a more complete shield for your eyes. 
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    2. Make Hats Your Outdoor Companion:

    A wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap with a good visor adds an extra layer of physical protection, effectively shading your eyes and reducing direct UV exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours. 

    3. Strategize Your Outdoor Time:

    The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. If possible, try to schedule your outdoor activities for earlier mornings or later afternoons when UV intensity is lower. 

    4. Combat Dryness, Wind, and Dust: 

    • Lubricating Eye Drops: Frequent exposure to wind (common near beaches or during dry Santa Ana winds) can dry out your eyes. Using artificial tears can keep your eyes well-lubricated and reduce irritation, which can be a factor in pterygium development. 
    • Protective Eyewear: Consider wearing glasses or goggles for activities that expose your eyes to excessive wind, sand, or dust, such as cycling, beach volleyball, or gardening. 

    Pterygium, if it grows large enough, can affect your vision or cause chronic irritation and redness. By being proactive and implementing these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure your eyes stay healthy and comfortable for years of San Diego enjoyment. 

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    Why Pterygium Prevention Matters 

    Left unchecked, pterygium can: 

    • Cause persistent redness, itchiness, and burning 
    • Become large enough to obstruct vision 
    • Require surgical removal if advanced 

    At Eye Care of San Diego, our board-certified ophthalmologists—like Dr. Carla Berkowitz, a cornea specialist—offer advanced pterygium evaluations and treatments to help preserve your vision and comfort. 

    Here’s what patients are saying about Dr. Carla Berkowitz, one of our cornea specialists: 
    “Dr. Berkowitz is very professional. She is an excellent surgeon who truly cares about her patients. She is very skilled and my preparation and the surgery went smoothly and without any complications. I highly recommend her.” 

    Prioritize Your Eye Health with Eye Care of San Diego! 

    If you have any concerns about pterygium, eye irritation, or simply want to ensure your vision is at its best, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our expert team at Eye Care of San Diego is here to provide comprehensive care and personalized advice. 

    Call us today at (800) 765-2737 or schedule your consultation to take the first step toward clearer, sharper vision. 

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