What is the medical term for eye discharge?

Eye discharge is fluid, mucus, tears, or crust that collects in or around the eye. A small amount on waking can happen because tears and mucus gather during sleep. Watery discharge with itching may occur with allergic conjunctivitis. Sticky mucus, redness, and irritation can occur with conjunctivitis, which has infectious and non-infectious forms. Discharge alone cannot identify the cause; one eye or both eyes, colour, pain, light sensitivity, and changes in vision all provide useful context.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye. Gently clean crusting with clean water and a fresh pad for each eye, then avoid sharing towels, pillows, cosmetics, or eye drops. Do not rub the eye or wear contact lenses until symptoms have settled and a clinician has advised that they are safe. A pharmacist or clinician can help decide whether allergy care, lubricating drops, or another treatment is appropriate.

Arrange prompt assessment for eye pain, marked light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, swelling around the eye, injury, or a feeling that something is stuck. Seek urgent help if vision changes suddenly, pain is severe, or symptoms occur in a contact-lens wearer. Newborns and people with a weakened immune system should be assessed early.

Ask what type of discharge is present, whether the other eye may become affected, how long to avoid contact lenses, and which symptoms mean you should return urgently. Mention allergies, recent illness, new cosmetics, and contact-lens use.