Eye discharge, often called “sleep” or “gunk,” is common, especially when unwell. It’s a natural protective response, as the eyes clear away debris and fight irritants or infections. This discharge is a mixture of mucus, oils, skin cells, and foreign particles. While some discharge is normal upon waking, significant changes in its appearance or quantity can signal an underlying issue.
What Eye Discharge Looks Like
Eye discharge can present in various forms, offering clues about its origin. Normal discharge, often seen after sleep, is typically clear, white, or a pale cream color, and can be wet or crusty depending on how much liquid has evaporated overnight. It is usually found in the corners of the eyes or along the lash line.
Discharge can also be watery, sometimes containing a small amount of mucus. In other instances, it might appear sticky, forming a crust that can temporarily seal the eyelids shut, particularly in the morning. When an infection is present, the discharge can take on different colors, such as white, yellow, or green. Yellow or green discharge often indicates a bacterial infection and tends to be thicker and more pus-like.
Common Reasons for Eye Discharge
Eye discharge when sick frequently stems from infections or allergic reactions that inflame the conjunctiva, the thin membrane lining the inside of the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye. This inflammation, known as conjunctivitis or “pink eye,” is a common cause of increased discharge. There are primarily three types of conjunctivitis that lead to eye discharge: viral, bacterial, and allergic.
Viral conjunctivitis, often caused by the same viruses responsible for the common cold, typically results in a clear and watery discharge, though it can sometimes include a white or light yellow mucus component. This type is highly contagious, often accompanying symptoms of a respiratory infection like a sore throat. The eye may also feel gritty or uncomfortable with this type of infection.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is characterized by a thicker, more pus-like discharge that is commonly yellow, green, or even gray. This sticky discharge can cause eyelids to become matted or glued shut upon waking. Bacterial infections can lead to symptoms such as eye redness, light sensitivity, and swollen eyelids.
Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander trigger an immune response in the eyes. This condition typically causes watery discharge, often accompanied by intense itching and redness in both eyes. Unlike viral and bacterial forms, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. Other conditions, such as styes, which are infected oil glands in the eyelid, can also produce yellow pus-like discharge. Blocked tear ducts, especially in infants, can lead to sticky, gooey discharge due to the inability of tears to drain properly.
Other Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
Eye discharge when sick is often accompanied by other symptoms. Common accompanying symptoms include redness of the eye, itching, a burning sensation, or a feeling that something is in the eye. Swelling of the eyelids can also occur, and some individuals may experience sensitivity to light or blurry vision. In cases of allergic conjunctivitis, symptoms like sneezing or a runny nose may also be present.
Certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. You should consult a healthcare provider if the discharge is excessive, thick, or changes to a yellow or green color, especially if it’s accompanied by pain, blurry vision, or increased light sensitivity. Persistent or worsening discharge, or discharge that follows an eye injury, also warrants medical evaluation. Sudden changes in vision, severe eye pain, or consistently stuck eyelids warrant prompt care. These symptoms could signal an eye infection requiring specific treatment, such as antibiotics or antiviral medications.
At-Home Care and Prevention
Managing eye discharge at home involves gentle cleaning and good hygiene to alleviate discomfort and prevent further spread. You can gently clean the affected eye by soaking a clean washcloth in warm water and placing it over your closed eyes for several minutes to soften any dried discharge. Afterward, gently wipe the discharge away, always moving from the inner corner of the eye to the outer corner to avoid spreading bacteria. Using a fresh cotton ball or clean, wet washcloth for each wipe is important.
Maintaining good hygiene practices prevents the spread of infection. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is recommended, especially before and after touching your eyes or applying eye drops. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or spread germs.
Do not share personal items like towels, pillowcases, eye makeup, or contact lenses, as these can harbor and transmit infectious agents. Replacing eye makeup regularly can also help prevent contamination. Staying hydrated supports overall bodily functions, including tear production.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them if you experience discharge and consult your eye doctor, as switching to daily disposables or a different lens material might be beneficial. If an eye infection is present, discarding potentially contaminated cosmetics and contact lenses can prevent re-infection.