Eye Discharge

What is it?

Eye discharge results from increased secretion or altered composition of the tear film and conjunctival mucus. Viral conjunctivitis (most commonly adenovirus) produces watery discharge, unilateral onset spreading to the other eye, and is highly contagious. Bacterial conjunctivitis produces thick yellow-green mucopurulent discharge causing the lids to stick together in the morning. Allergic conjunctivitis produces bilateral watery discharge with intense itching. Blepharitis (eyelid margin inflammation) causes morning crusting with waxy white or yellow scales at the lash bases. Neonatal conjunctivitis (ophthalmia neonatorum) from gonorrhea or chlamydia within the first month of life is an emergency requiring systemic antibiotics.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Copious purulent discharge in a sexually active adult — possible gonococcal conjunctivitis, urgent
• 2Eye discharge with severe pain, photophobia, or vision changes — rule out corneal ulcer or keratitis
• 3Newborn with eye discharge in the first month of life — neonatal conjunctivitis is an emergency
• 4Conjunctivitis in a contact lens wearer — higher risk of Pseudomonas keratitis
• 5Eye discharge with preauricular lymphadenopathy — viral conjunctivitis or EBV

What you can do

• ✓Wash hands frequently — viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious via contact
• ✓Use a warm compress to loosen crusted discharge and unclog meibomian glands in blepharitis
• ✓Do not share towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup with others
• ✓Remove contact lenses until symptoms fully resolve
• ✓Clean the eyelid margins with diluted baby shampoo on a cotton swab for blepharitis

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions