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Warning-sign checks

Pinguecula: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help after a chemical splash, penetrating injury, or sudden major loss of vision.

    If a chemical enters the eye, begin rinsing it immediately with plenty of clean, lukewarm water while arranging emergency care.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Also seek a routine or prompt appointment if:

    • The patch is growing or changing colour or shape
    • Redness or irritation does not settle
    • It repeatedly becomes inflamed
    • It interferes with contact lenses
    • You develop persistent blurred vision
    • You are unsure whether symptoms are caused by the patch

    Seek urgent eye care for marked pain, strong sensitivity to light, sudden blurred or reduced vision, or significant swelling.

    These are not typical features of an uncomplicated pinguecula.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine eye appointment if you notice a new patch or lump on the eye.

    An examination can confirm whether it is a pinguecula or another type of growth.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pinguecula. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.