The yellow spot on your eye is likely a pinguecula. This is a harmless, yellowish, raised growth on the white part of your eye (the conjunctiva), often near the nose. It's usually caused by prolonged exposure to sun, wind, and dust.
Understanding Pinguecula
A pinguecula is a common condition that appears as a small, yellowish bump or patch. It's made up of deposits of fat, protein, and/or calcium. While it can cause some irritation, redness, and dryness, it generally doesn't affect vision.
- Location: Typically found on the conjunctiva, near where the white of the eye meets the colored part.
- Appearance: Yellowish raised growth or bump.
- Causes: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, wind, and dust.
- Symptoms: May include eye redness, irritation, and dry eye in addition to the visible bump. It usually doesn't affect vision.
- Treatment: Often requires no treatment. Medications can help relieve discomfort if needed. Protecting your eyes from sun, wind, and dust can help prevent worsening.
Several sources confirm this: The American Academy of Ophthalmology (https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pinguecula-pterygium), Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23443-pinguecula), and many others describe pinguecula as a common cause of a yellowish spot on the eye.
Important Note: While a pinguecula is usually benign, if you experience significant discomfort, changes in vision, or any other concerning symptoms, consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist for proper diagnosis and management. They can differentiate a pinguecula from other, potentially more serious, conditions. This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice.