Surfer's Eye: Causes, Symptoms, and What You Can Do About It

When your eye starts to look cloudy or red near the corner, it might not be just irritation—it could be surfer's eye, a noncancerous growth on the surface of the eye caused by long-term UV exposure and dry, windy conditions. Also known as pterygium, it often shows up in people who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially near water, sand, or snow where sunlight reflects strongly. This isn’t just a beach problem—it affects farmers, construction workers, skiers, and anyone who doesn’t protect their eyes from the sun over years.

Surfer’s eye doesn’t always cause pain, but it can make your eye feel gritty, dry, or like there’s sand in it. As it grows, it might start to cover part of the cornea, making vision blurry or distorted. Many people ignore it at first, thinking it’s just allergies or tired eyes. But if it keeps growing, it can change how light enters your eye, leading to astigmatism. And while it’s not cancer, it won’t go away on its own. The real danger isn’t the growth itself—it’s the long-term UV damage behind it. That same UV exposure is linked to cataracts and macular degeneration, too. Protecting your eyes isn’t optional—it’s the first line of defense.

Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat cuts your risk dramatically. Not all sunglasses are equal—look for ones labeled UV400 or 100% UV protection. Contact lens wearers should also consider lenses with built-in UV filters. If your surfer’s eye is mild, artificial tears and avoiding wind and dust can help manage symptoms. But if it’s growing fast or starting to block your vision, surgery is the only real fix. Even then, it can come back if you don’t change your habits afterward.

The posts below cover real cases, treatment options, and how to avoid worsening eye damage from sun and wind. You’ll find advice on what eye drops actually help, how to choose the right sunglasses, and what to ask your eye doctor if you notice changes. No fluff. Just what works.