What should you know about eye discharge medicine?

Watery discharge can occur with irritation or allergy, while thicker or sticky material may accompany inflammation of the eye surface. Allergic Conjunctivitis often presents with itching and watering in both eyes. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, crusting, and discharge, but discharge alone cannot identify the cause. Contact lens wear, a blocked tear duct, or a foreign body may need a different approach.

Clean your hands before and after touching the eye. Soften crusts with clean cotton or a warm, clean compress, using a fresh pad for each eye. Do not share towels, cosmetics, or eye drops, and avoid rubbing. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have settled and a clinician says they are suitable again. Do not use leftover antibiotics, steroid drops, or another person’s medicine; the wrong product can worsen irritation or hide a more serious problem. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose an appropriate product.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, marked swelling, injury, or a feeling that something is trapped in the eye. Contact lens wear with pain or worsening redness needs urgent attention. Seek advice if discharge keeps returning, affects a newborn, or does not improve with simple care. Emergency help is appropriate for sudden vision loss or severe injury.

Ask what cause is most likely, whether you need a prescription, how to apply it, and when to stop. Mention contact lenses, allergies, recent eye injury, and any change in vision.