What should you know about cold and eye discharge?

A blocked nose can make the eyes water, and viral illnesses can inflame the conjunctiva, the clear surface over the white of the eye. Conjunctivitis may cause redness, grittiness, watering, crusting, or discharge that makes the eyelids stick together. Allergic conjunctivitis more often causes itchiness and watery discharge, commonly affecting both eyes. Eye discharge has several possible causes, so colour alone cannot identify the cause or determine which treatment is needed.

Wash hands before and after touching the eyes, clean discharge gently with a fresh damp pad, and avoid sharing towels, pillows, cosmetics, or eye drops. Do not rub the eyes or wear contact lenses while they are irritated. Dispose of eye makeup used during the episode. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether supportive care or prescribed treatment is appropriate.

Get urgent eye care for significant pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, marked swelling, injury, or a red eye in a contact-lens wearer. Arrange assessment when discharge is heavy, symptoms are worsening, the eyelids are difficult to open, or a baby has a red or sticky eye. Seek help sooner if you feel generally very unwell.

Ask whether the pattern fits viral, bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis, whether contact lenses should be stopped, and which cleaning method is safe. Mention pain, light sensitivity, vision change, recent exposure to someone with conjunctivitis, and any eye injury.