Conjunctivitis with yellow discharge: what to know

Yellow or cream discharge may dry on the lashes and make the eyelids stick together, especially after sleep. This pattern can occur with bacterial conjunctivitis, although viral irritation can also produce discharge. Redness, watering, a gritty feeling and swollen lids may occur at the same time. Yellow discharge does not by itself prove which germ is responsible or show how serious the problem is.

If only one eye is affected, avoid transferring discharge to the other eye. Contact lenses, eye makeup and shared towels can increase irritation or spread infection. Stop using lenses while discharge and redness remain, and replace eye makeup used during the episode.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye. Soften crusts with clean warm water, wipe from the inner corner outward, and use a separate clean pad for each eye. Do not rub the eye or squeeze discharge from it. A pharmacist can discuss suitable lubricating drops. A GP consultation is useful when discharge is persistent, recurrent or accompanied by significant swelling. Do not start leftover antibiotic treatment without advice.

Seek prompt assessment for moderate or severe eye pain, reduced vision, pronounced light sensitivity, swelling around the eye, an injury, or difficulty opening the eye. Contact-lens wearers should obtain urgent clinical advice because eye-surface infections can become more serious. Seek help if redness is spreading, symptoms are rapidly worsening or the person is generally very unwell.

Ask whether the discharge pattern fits bacterial conjunctivitis, whether a swab or examination is needed, and how long to avoid lenses or work with close contact. Mention any pain, vision change, light sensitivity, contact-lens use, recent illness and medication already placed in the eye.