Discharge from Eyes

Eyes | Ophthalmology | Discharge from Eyes (Symptom)


Description

Eye discharge is yellowish, sticky, crusty substances that can sometimes make your eye’s feel glued shut. It can be temporary such as when you wake up in the morning, or persistent in which medical attention should be considered. Usually the eye discharges are harmless and it is part of your body’s natural defense system, however some causes are serious, but there are treatment options.

Causes

There are many different causes as to why your eye produces discharge. Most are harmless, but some causes can be the result of a more serious condition. The first and the most common reason is waking up with discharge in the corners of your eyes. This discharge is a sign that some form of bacteria, either from make-up or extra oily skin has tried to make its way into your eye while you were sleeping. A bacteria invasion can lead to a more serious condition like Blepharitis, which is an inflammation at the base of your eyelashes that produces the thick, yellowish pus filled with bacteria-fighting white blood cells.

Many people who are sick with cold or flu tend to have more eye discharge as well. A sticky and yellowish discharge that seals your eyes shut is a natural defense to conditions such as pinkeye. Pinkeye is a virus infection that attacks the membrane that covers the eyeball. A thinner, clearer and less-crusty discharge could be the result of allergies or a cold/flu and usually goes away once the irritating factors are eliminated. Pollen, gusty winds, dry eyes or an eyelash can cause an irritation which will lead to the discharge.

Other, more serious causes of eye discharge can be associated with medical conditions such as conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers. Most causes of eye discharge are not serious and can be easily treated.

...