What should you know about frequent eye discharge?

A small amount of clear or watery fluid can occur with wind, dust, or allergy. Allergic conjunctivitis often causes itching and usually affects both eyes. Conjunctivitis can cause watery or sticky discharge, redness, and eyelids that crust during sleep. Thick discharge, increasing redness, or symptoms that persist can require an examination. Discharge alone cannot confirm which cause is present.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eyes. Clean crusts gently with clean cotton or a fresh damp cloth, using a separate piece for each eye. Do not share towels, pillows, eye makeup, or contact lenses. Pause contact lens use while the eye is irritated and discard eye makeup used during the episode. Avoid rubbing, and use a cool compress if itching is prominent. A clinician can advise whether drops are appropriate.

Arrange prompt medical care for eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, marked swelling, injury, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye. Seek urgent help if symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or occur in a contact-lens wearer. Persistent or repeatedly returning discharge also merits assessment, especially when only one eye is affected.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergy, infection, or another source of irritation; whether you should stop a product or lens type; and which symptoms would require urgent review. Note the discharge colour and texture, whether one or both eyes are affected, and when it appears.