What should you know about congestion and eye discharge?

A viral respiratory infection can cause a blocked nose with watery or sticky eyes. Conjunctivitis may cause redness, irritation, watering, or discharge that makes the lids stick together. Allergic Conjunctivitis is more likely when both eyes itch and water, especially alongside sneezing or an itchy, congested nose. Thick discharge does not by itself prove that antibiotics are needed. Contact lens use, a foreign body, or another eye problem can change the level of concern and should be mentioned during assessment.

Wash hands before and after touching the eyes, use a clean damp cloth to soften crusting, and avoid sharing towels, pillows, or eye cosmetics. Do not rub the eyes. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have fully settled and a clinician advises they are safe to resume. A pharmacist or clinician can help distinguish allergy from infection and select suitable treatment. Avoid using another person’s eye drops or old prescribed drops.

Seek urgent eye care for eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, marked swelling, injury, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye. Contact lens users with a painful or red eye need prompt assessment. Get medical advice for a newborn with discharge, symptoms that are worsening, or discharge that does not settle.

Describe whether the discharge is watery, stringy, or thick, whether one or both eyes are affected, and whether you have fever or a blocked nose. Ask if this looks like Conjunctivitis or allergy, how long you may be contagious, and which eye-care products are appropriate.