Eye discharge is a common symptom of many eye conditions. It can vary from mild to severe. The discharge can vary in colour depending on its composition. In some cases, eye discharge requires medical attention. Let's look at what can be done when eye discharge becomes too troublesome and when to consult an eye professional.
What causes eye discharge?
Eye discharge has a protective function. It's how your eyes try to eliminate particles and other undesirable foreign bodies. Eye discharge consists of mucus, aqueous and oily substances your eyes produce, skin cells and debris.
Eye discharge can have a different consistency and colour depending on its composition. Sometimes, it looks like tears, sometimes like a sticky filament in your eyes, and sometimes like a yellowish secretion that sticks to your eyes.
In addition, many eye infections cause abnormal eye discharge:
- The different forms of conjunctivitis (viral, bacterial and allergic)
- Stye
- Ocular herpes
- Keratitis
- Blepharitis
- Dacryocystitis
- Corneal ulcer
Other causes may explain the appearance of eye discharge:
- Dry eyes
- Eye injuries
- Wearing contact lenses
- Meibomian gland dysfunction
In other words, the causes and nature of eye discharge vary considerably. Discharge can be clear and watery or green, thick and sticky. That's why you must consult your optometrist for an accurate diagnosis.
When should I consult a doctor about eye discharge?
Eye discharge is a common occurrence and is often harmless. However, if troublesome discharge persists or worsens, it's best to make an appointment with an optometrist.
After an eye exam, your optometrist can tell you whether the discharge is a symptom of an eye condition. And in the case of an eye infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics or antiviral eye drops.
If eye allergies are making your eyes water, you may be able to find over-the-counter antihistamines at the pharmacy. These should relieve your symptoms.
What to do if you have eye discharge?
You can do a few things to improve comfort to reduce or even eliminate your eye discharge.
Hot compresses
Place hot compresses on your eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. The temperature should not burn you, but you can use warm water. The heat helps reduce itching and eye discomfort. By repeating hot compresses several times a day, you may even succeed in eliminating discharge.
Wake up in the morning and lift your eyelids.
What to do if your eyes stick together in the morning? Again, the best technique is to apply a cloth with warm water. Place it over your eyes for a few minutes, then wipe them with a cloth to remove the secretions.
Dealing with eye discharge and contact lenses
If your eyes water while wearing contact lenses, it's best to remove them. We recommend that you rest your eyes for 24 to 48 hours while wearing your prescription glasses. If the situation recurs when you return your contact lenses, don't hesitate to consult your optometrist.
Discard potentially contaminated products
If you have an eye infection, such as viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, discard all cosmetics that have come into contact with your eyes.
