What should you know about mucopurulent conjunctivitis?

Mucopurulent means mucus mixed with pus. In conjunctivitis, this can make the eyelids stick together, especially after sleep, with irritation, watering, and redness. Both eyes may become involved, and the infection can spread through contaminated hands, towels, cosmetics, or pillowcases.

Discharge alone does not establish the exact cause. A GP or other clinician considers the appearance of the eye, pain, vision, contact-lens use, recent illness, and exposure to irritants before deciding whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

Wash hands before and after touching the eyes. Gently wipe discharge with clean cotton or a clean damp cloth, using a fresh part for each wipe and each eye. Do not share towels, eye makeup, or drops, and pause contact lenses until the eye has recovered and a clinician advises restarting them.

Avoid rubbing the eyes. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable drops. Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else's eye medicine, because the wrong treatment can delay proper care.

Seek urgent assessment for significant eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, marked light sensitivity, injury, swelling around the eye, or a contact-lens-related red eye. Arrange a GP consultation if discharge is heavy, symptoms are worsening, both eyes are difficult to open, or improvement does not begin after basic hygiene. Newborns with eye discharge need prompt medical advice.

Does the discharge fit conjunctivitis or another eye problem? Do I need antibiotic treatment? When can I wear contact lenses or use eye makeup again? Which warning symptoms should prompt same-day review?