Eye Discharge Symptoms

Introduction

Eye discharge is the result of fluid secretion from the eye. It can appear in various forms, such as clear and watery tears or even thick-coloured discharge. Any change in colour and consistency (other than the normal crust at the corner of the eye every morning or tears) is indicative of an underlying condition.

What are the types of eye discharge?

Some of the most common types are:

• Sleep crust: morning mucus at the corner of the eye due to excess oil, debris, and skin cells. 
• Thick eye mucus: indicating a bacterial infection with grey, green, or yellow discharge.
• Watery mucus: indicating a viral infection such as pink eye or conjunctivitis. 
• Stringy mucus: indicating dry eye syndrome. 
• Eye discharge with a bump: indicating a stye or chalazion with blocked eyelid glands.

Symptoms of eye discharge

Eye discharge is commonly associated with several kinds of eye infections. Some of the symptoms you may notice are:

• Redness
• Itchiness
• Blurred Vision
• Eye pain

Causes of eye discharge

Several factors could be the root cause of eye discharge: 

• Bacterial infection
• Viral infection
• Foreign object in the eye
• Blocked tear duct
• Allergy
• Chronic dry eye syndrome
• Eye cellulitis (deep infection of the eyelid)
• Corneal ulcer

When to see a doctor

In case of normal or benign eye discharge, you do not need to see a doctor. In case you notice any change in colour, frequency, or consistency, accompanied by other symptoms such as redness or eye pain, it is essential to seek the advice of a medical professional. Keep an eye for the following symptoms as well:

• High-grade fever
• Blurry vision or red, swollen eyelid
• Eye pus
• Increasing eye pain 

Doctors conduct a physical examination of the eye to diagnose the underlying cause of eye discharge. They may recommend antibiotics, eye drops, decongestants, or further tests for better diagnosis. 

Some of the most common ways to prevent eye discharge are:

• Practice good hand hygiene and eye hygiene
• Do not pick your eyes
• Keep your eyes hydrated with doctor-recommended artificial eye drops
• Remember to remove any oil or makeup with a clean, damp cloth or cotton
• If you wear lenses, remove them every night 

While eye discharge is not a life-threatening medical condition, certain kinds of discharge indicate poor eye health, infections, or allergies.