Pterygium and the Coffs Coast Sun: How to Spot ‘Surfer’s Eye’ and Protect Your Vision

3rd Dec 2025

Pterygium and the Coffs Coast Sun: How to Spot ‘Surfer’s Eye’ and Protect Your Vision

The breathtaking beaches and abundant sunshine are what we all love about living on the Coffs Coast. However, this beautiful environment poses a specific risk to your eye health that we, as your independent optometrist in Coffs Harbour, see regularly: Pterygium, often called “Surfer’s Eye.”

Pterygium is a common, non-cancerous growth that begins on the white of your eye (sclera) and can grow toward the centre (cornea). While it’s benign, its presence is a clear sign of chronic, unprotected sun and wind exposure—common conditions here in Coffs Harbour.

What Causes Pterygium?

In short, it’s exposure. The primary culprits for Pterygium formation are:

  • UV Radiation: Prolonged, cumulative exposure to the strong Australian sun.

  • Wind and Dust: Irritants that are abundant on the coast and in open areas of the Coffs Coast.

  • Dryness: The combination of wind and sun can contribute to eye surface dryness.

Spotting the Signs: Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

While a Pterygium might start small, the need for treatment often begins when it affects vision or comfort. Look out for these symptoms:

  • A fleshy, wing-shaped growth on the white of the eye, usually starting near the nose.

  • Persistent redness, inflammation, and irritation (it may feel like something is always in your eye).

  • Blurred vision, especially if the growth begins to obstruct the cornea.

Prevention is Key in Coffs Harbour

If you love the outdoors here in Coffs Harbour, the most effective way to prevent or slow the growth of Pterygium is simple: protection.

  1. Wear Sunglasses 100% of the Time: Always choose glasses that offer 100% UVA/UVB protection and are compliant with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1067.1:2016). Wraparound styles offer the best protection from the side.

  2. Use Quality Eyewear: We stock a range of sunglasses here at [Your Practice Name] that meet the required standards and provide superior protection and glare reduction for the coastal lifestyle.

  3. Regular Eye Checks: An annual comprehensive eye exam with your Coffs Harbour optometrist allows us to monitor the health of your eye surface and recommend early preventative action.

If you are concerned about a growth on your eye, or if you simply need to upgrade your protective eyewear for the Coffs Coast lifestyle, schedule an appointment with us today.