These include: eye herpes (a recurrent viral eye infection), fungal keratitis (a rare but serious inflammation of the cornea) and Acanthamoeba keratitis (a potentially blinding infection typically caused by poor contact lens hygiene or swimming while wearing contacts).ĭischarge from an eye infection varies considerably - it could be clear and watery or thick, green and sticky - so make sure you see your eye doctor promptly for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In addition to conjunctivitis, there are many eye infections that cause abnormal eye discharge. Unlike viral and bacterial pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and always affects both eyes. Eye discharge associated with allergic conjunctivitis is typically watery. It also can be caused by an allergic reaction to chemical pollutants, makeup, contact lens solutions, and eye drops. Often, the sticky mattering will cause your eyelids to feel completely glued shut upon waking in the morning.Īllergic conjunctivitis is triggered by allergens - pollen, dander, dust and other common irritants that cause eye allergies. Eye discharge is usually thicker and more pus-like (purulent) in consistency than viral pink eye, and is commonly yellow, green or even gray. Eye discharge associated with viral pink eye typically is clear and watery, but may include a white or light yellow mucus component.īacterial conjunctivitis, as the name indicates, is caused by bacterial infection and can be sight-threatening if not treated promptly. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is caused by a virus such as the common cold or herpes simplex virus. There are three types of pink eye: viral, bacterial and allergic. In some cases, eyelid crusting can be so severe that it temporarily seals your eye shut. In addition to itchy, gritty, irritated and red eyes, conjunctivitis typically is accompanied by white, yellow or green eye mucus which can form a crust along the lash line while you sleep. Thick, yellow eye discharge can be caused by an eye infection. Sleep in your eyes usually isn't cause for alarm, but if you notice a difference in consistency, color and quantity of eye gunk, it could indicate an eye infection or disease.Ĭommon eye conditions associated with abnormal eye discharge include: ConjunctivitisĮye discharge is a common symptom of conjunctivitis (pink eye), an inflammation of the conjunctiva - the thin membrane that lines the "white" of the eye (sclera) and the inner surface of the eyelids. It primarily consists of thin, watery mucus produced by the conjunctiva (called mucin), and meibum - an oily substance secreted by the meibomian glands which helps keep your eyes lubricated between blinks. and help you get rid of it.Įye discharge (rheum) is a function of your tear film and a necessary component of good eye health. An eye doctor can help you discern what's causing that gunk. But it could also be conjunctivitis (pink eye) or some other type of infection. It could merely be allergies or dry eyes. But if it's sudden or excessive and you're concerned, book an appointment with an eye doctor today. Some sleep in your eyes upon waking is normal, but excessive eye discharge, especially if it's green or yellow in color and accompanied by blurry vision, light sensitivity or eye pain, can indicate a serious eye infection or eye disease and should be promptly examined by your eye doctor.Įye discharge is most likely nothing to worry about. When you're asleep - and not blinking - eye discharge collects and crusts in the corners of your eyes and sometimes along the lash line, hence the term "sleep" in your eyes. Your eyes produce mucus throughout the day, but a continuous thin film of tears bathes your eyes when you blink, flushing out the rheum before it hardens in your eyes. Products and potentially harmful debris from the tear film and the front surface of your eyes. Sometimes called "rheum," eye discharge has a protective function, removing waste Other slang terms used to describe eye discharge include eye mattering, eye boogers, eye gunk, eye pus and goopy eyes. It can be wet and sticky or dry and crusty, depending on how much of the liquid in the discharge has evaporated. Schedule an exam Find Eye Doctor What is eye discharge?Įye discharge, or "sleep" in your eyes, is a combination of mucus, oil, skin cells and other debris that accumulates in the corner of your eye while you sleep.
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