Eye discharge and runny nose: what to know

The nose and eyes are linked by drainage passages, so irritation in one area can affect the other. Allergic conjunctivitis may occur with an itchy or watery nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, especially after exposure to a trigger. A viral upper-respiratory illness can bring a runny nose together with watery eyes and mild discharge. Conjunctivitis can also spread through close contact and may produce sticky material. Fever, sore throat, cough, eye redness, and the colour or thickness of discharge help a clinician separate these patterns.

Wash hands frequently, avoid rubbing the eyes, and gently clean discharge with a fresh clean cloth. Use tissues once and discard them, and do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics, or eye drops. Rest, drink fluids, and reduce exposure to smoke, dust, or a suspected allergen. Leave contact lenses out while the eyes are irritated. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on an appropriate treatment after considering age, pregnancy, medical conditions, and other medicines.

Seek urgent care for severe eye pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, major swelling, an eye injury, or a chemical splash. Contact-lens users with discharge and redness should seek prompt advice. Arrange a review if symptoms are worsening, recurring, difficult to manage, or accompanied by breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or a child who seems unusually unwell.

Do the nose and eye symptoms fit an allergy or infection? Which exposures should I avoid? How should I protect household members if this could spread?