Question:
The whites of both my eyes have a yellowish, brownish streak on them that runs from the iris to the corners of both sides. Can you tell me what this is and if I can get rid of it? It doesn't look very nice at all. Thanks.

Answer:

Without seeing your eyes, unfortunately I can't give you an exact diagnosis. However, a couple of conditions we see a lot in Australia are pterigium (pronounced "ter-ige-ee-um") and pinguecula. These have been nicknamed "eye calluses". They can present with a discoloured yellow, red or grey raised ridge across the conjunctiva over the whites of your eyes.

If you squint, they will normally form over the whites that are exposed to sun, dust and wind. They are particularly common in places such as Queensland that have an outdoorsy lifestyle. With pterigium, the growth of raised tissue may be progressive across the cornea, which is in front of the iris or coloured part of the eye. If pterigium is diagnosed and becoming unsightly, irritating or causing vision problems, surgery may be an option.

Prevention is also important. Wearing a brimmed hat and sunglasses reduces your chances of eye problems, especially pterigium and pinguecula. In order to get an accurate diagnosis, you will have to see your GP for an eye check.

In terms of general eye health, everyone over the age of 40 should also have a check up for the eye condition glaucoma. (This, by the way, doesn't present with your symptoms, but it's worthwhile using the eye check opportunity to check your entire eye health).