What causes yellow spots on the white part of the eye, and what should be done about it?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Yellow spots on the white part of the eye may be caused by aging, allergies, conjunctivitis, pinguecula, scleritis, or other reasons. Appropriate treatments vary depending on the underlying cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the exact cause and receive proper treatment under a doctor's guidance. During treatment, avoid prolonged eye use to prevent eye strain and worsening of discomfort symptoms.
Yellowish spots on the white part of the eye are generally caused by aging, allergies, conjunctivitis, pinguecula, scleritis, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Aging
As people age, localized pigment deposition may occur, leading to yellowing of the sclera (white of the eye). This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon and typically does not require special treatment. Proper eye care in daily life is usually sufficient.
2. Allergies
If the eyes are exposed to allergens such as pollen or animal hair, an allergic reaction may increase eye secretions, which can accumulate on the eye surface and result in yellowing of the white of the eye, along with tearing and light sensitivity. Antiallergic medications such as diphenhydramine hydrochloride tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ebastine tablets may be used as directed by a physician.
3. Scleritis
Scleritis may be caused by infection with bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, or associated with autoimmune diseases. It can also result from lipid deposition or degeneration in the blood vessels of the bulbar conjunctiva. Symptoms may include scleral congestion and swelling. Under medical guidance, treatments such as loteprednol etabonate-tobramycin ophthalmic suspension, sodium hyaluronate eye drops, or carboxymethylcellulose sodium eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
4. Conjointivitis
Bacterial infections can lead to conjunctivitis, causing conjunctival congestion and the production of large amounts of yellow purulent discharge, resulting in yellowing of the white of the eye. This may be accompanied by eyelid swelling and eye pain. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops such as chloramphenicol eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or levofloxacin eye drops may be used as prescribed by a doctor.
5. Pinguecula
Prolonged exposure to high-intensity ultraviolet light or elevated cholesterol levels may lead to pinguecula, which results from degenerative changes and overgrowth of conjunctival tissue. Treatment under medical supervision may include dexamethasone sodium phosphate eye drops, kanamycin eye drops, or ofloxacin eye ointment. For persistent or refractory cases where medication proves ineffective, surgical excision of the pinguecula under microscopic guidance may be recommended by a physician.
It is advised to visit a hospital promptly for proper diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment under medical supervision. During treatment, avoid prolonged eye use to prevent eye strain and worsening of symptoms.
