What Is That Goop In My Eye? The Different Types Of Eye Discharge

What Are The Symptoms Of Eye Discharge?

Changes in the frequency, texture, color, and amount of eye discharge can often be the first sign of an eye issue. For allergy sufferers, redness of the eye, discharge, tearing, and itching are common symptoms. In the case of an infection, you may experience yellow or green discharge. Likewise, a heavy amount of discharge can make it feel as though the eye has been glued shut. Furthermore, other symptoms may accompany the abnormal eye discharge, such as redness, inflammation of the mucous membrane, swelling of the eyelid (blepharitis), pain, sensitivity to light, or vision changes. If you are experiencing a change in eye discharge, see your eye doctor immediately to receive a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How To Treat It

It is important to remember any changes in eye discharge must be promptly evaluated by a doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis. What is more, infections will require immediate treatment with antibiotics or steroids, perhaps both, and can be very serious if left untreated. Additionally, eye discharge determined to be caused by an allergic reaction can be treated with antihistamines. Home treatment is also useful for managing eye discharge symptoms in addition to the other treatments your doctor might have prescribed. A warm washcloth will help separate eyelashes that have been 'glued shut' from excess discharge.