Eye infection with white discharge: what to know

White or pale mucus often collects when the eye is dry, irritated, or inflamed. Conjunctivitis can cause redness, watering, a gritty feeling, and discharge that crusts on the lashes. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly brings intense itching, watering, and stringy mucus, often in both eyes. Smoke, dust, cosmetics, and contact lenses can also irritate the surface. The colour and texture are clues rather than a diagnosis, so notice whether there is pain, swelling, vision change, or a recent exposure. Eye Discharge provides more information about patterns and associated symptoms.

Wash your hands before and after cleaning. Use a fresh clean cloth dampened with water to soften crusts and wipe gently without scraping the eyelids. Avoid rubbing, eye makeup, and shared towels. Stop contact lenses until symptoms have cleared and a clinician confirms that restarting is appropriate; clean or replace lens equipment according to professional advice. Artificial tears may soothe irritation for some people, but avoid drops that were prescribed for another person. If an allergen is suspected, limit exposure and keep hands away from the eyes.

Arrange an assessment if discharge keeps returning, redness is worsening, or symptoms are not improving. Seek urgent care for eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, pronounced light sensitivity, swelling around the eye, an injury, or chemical exposure. A contact-lens wearer with pain, redness, or vision change should seek urgent eye care. Fever or feeling seriously unwell also changes the urgency.

Ask whether the discharge fits allergy, irritation, or conjunctivitis and whether both eyes are affected. Tell the clinician about itching, pain, vision changes, contact lenses, cosmetics, dust exposure, and recent illness. Ask which drops are suitable and when it is safe to resume lenses or eye makeup.