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Pterygium is defined as a protective conjunctival tissue growth found on the  nasal part of the the eyeball.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: When the eyes are constantly exposed to irritants like dust, sunlight, particles, Dry air, smoke et.c. The body in a bid to protect the eyes stimulate a protective tissue growth to shield the eyes from unfavorable environmental conditions. This tissue growth can extend beyond the visual axis and impede vision. It can also press on the cornea thereby resulting in Astigmatism. In extreme wether conditions, this tissue growth can become inflamed, by virtue of vascular proliferation resulting in pterygitis.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: reddish tissue on the nasal part of the eyeball, foreign body sensation, gritty sensation, dryness, pain

TREATMENT: This growth can be removed surgical by a procedure called PTERYGIUM EXCISION. Discomforts as a result of inflammation can be relieved by corticosteroids, Topical lubricants and NSAIDS

Allergic conjunctivitis is a compound word and this condition can be defined as the inflammation of the conjunctival tissues Triggered  by allergic reaction.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:  Allergic reaction occurs when the body is exposed to allergens ( unpleasant particles). This particles causes a disruption in the mast cells of the body. Once the mast cells are distabilized, protective substances known as histamines are released into the blood stream. These histamines then triggers the symptoms peculiar to allergic reactions.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: signs and symptoms of Allergic conjunctivitis includes: Redness, itching, swollen conjunctiva, foreign body sensation, tearing.

TREATMENT: Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis basically involves the use  mast cell stabilizers, antihistamines, ocular decongestants and corticosteroids.