Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, actress, author, and television personality, recently revealed she battled growths on her eyeballs, a condition that caused her significant discomfort and concern. In an exclusive interview, Wahlberg opened up about the ordeal, sharing details about the diagnosis, treatment, and her renewed appreciation for eye health.
Wahlberg, 51, initially noticed the growths several months ago, attributing the early symptoms to dry eyes and fatigue. "I just thought I was tired, staring at screens too much," she explained. "But then the irritation got worse, and I started seeing these little bumps. That's when I knew something wasn't right."
After consulting with an ophthalmologist, Wahlberg was diagnosed with pingueculae, non-cancerous growths that develop on the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye. While often harmless, pingueculae can become inflamed and cause discomfort, redness, and blurred vision.
“It was scary, to be honest," Wahlberg admitted. "Your eyes are so precious. The thought of something growing on them is unsettling."
Several factors can contribute to the development of pingueculae, including prolonged exposure to sunlight, wind, and dust. Dry eye syndrome and aging can also play a role. Wahlberg's physician attributed her condition, at least in part, to her years spent working outdoors in sunny climates and frequent travel.
The treatment for pingueculae typically involves managing symptoms with lubricating eye drops and, in some cases, steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary. Wahlberg's treatment plan initially focused on conservative measures.
"I've been diligent about using artificial tears multiple times a day and wearing sunglasses whenever I'm outside," she said. "That seemed to help keep the inflammation at bay for a while."
However, after several months of conservative treatment, Wahlberg opted for a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the growths. The surgery was performed on an outpatient basis, and Wahlberg reported a quick recovery.
"The surgery was much easier than I anticipated," she said. "I was back to my normal routine within a few days. The relief of not having that constant irritation is incredible."
Wahlberg is now an advocate for proactive eye care, urging others to prioritize regular eye exams and protect their eyes from environmental factors. She stresses the importance of wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, even on cloudy days.
"Don't take your eye health for granted," she cautioned. "Pay attention to any changes in your vision or comfort. Early detection and treatment can make a huge difference."
Her experience has also led her to adopt a more mindful approach to screen time and prioritize eye hydration. "I'm making a conscious effort to take breaks from screens throughout the day and to use lubricating eye drops regularly," she added.
Wahlberg's openness about her health challenges is consistent with her history of advocating for health awareness. She has previously been vocal about her son Evan's autism diagnosis and her advocacy for research and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
By sharing her experience with pingueculae, Wahlberg hopes to encourage others to prioritize their eye health and seek prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms. She emphasizes that while eye conditions can be frightening, early intervention and proper management can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. She concluded by reiterating the importance of regular eye exams with a qualified ophthalmologist to ensure optimal vision and detect any potential problems early on.
