The conjunctiva is the tissue that covers the outer surface of the white of your eye, as well as lining the underside of your eyelids. This tissue has a similar makeup as the skin on the rest of your body, and, as a result, you may have small growths or freckles that appear. Knowing some of the types of bumps and their causes may help you discuss your condition with your eye care provider.
Pinguecula
A pinguecula is a bump that may grow on the conjunctiva. The bump often has a yellowish appearance, and the bump may increase in size over a period of time. For many people, a pinguecula does not cause discomfort or interfere with vision. However, you may experience some discomfort or dryness in that area, particularly if the bump grows considerably large. Also, if the pinguecula grows toward the cornea, you may experience some vision changes.
Eye drops may help improve discomfort, and, in some cases, an eye surgeon may recommend removing the pinguecula to improve vision or extreme discomfort.
Pterygium
A pterygium may start out as a small bump, but as it grows, it will appear to "spread" over the surface of the eye. If the growth expands, covering an area of the cornea, you may notice vision changes. A pterygium will often appear thick, and you may see blood vessels growing in the tissue. Many of these growths do not require treatment, but if a pterygium alters vision or causes discomfort, your eye doctor may recommend removing the growth.
Eyelid Bumps
The eyelids contain oil glands, and if matter blocks one of the ducts to the gland, you may have a bump on your eyelid. These bumps, called styes, do not necessarily indicate a serious condition, but you may experience minor discomfort until the blockage clears. To aid in the process, you can gently apply a warm, damp cloth to your eyelid periodically throughout the day. This may loosen the blockage. If the bump does not improve, or if it worsens, you should contact your eye doctor for an evaluation.
Risk Factors
You have a greater risk for developing a pinguecula or pterygium if you spend a great deal of time outdoors without sunglasses or other eye protection that blocks ultraviolet rays. People with frequent exposure to eye irritants, such as welders, have a greater risk for developing a growth on the conjunctiva.
Considerations
Contact your eye doctor if you notice a bump on your eye, since this could also indicate a cancerous lesion. Your doctor will use a slit lamp, a microscope designed specifically for examining the eye, to evaluate the bump and determine any necessary treatment.
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