What should you know about pink eye green discharge?

Discharge that is yellow or green may collect on the lashes and make them stick together, especially after sleep. Bacterial conjunctivitis can produce thicker discharge, while viral inflammation may also cause discharge and often occurs alongside a cold. Allergy more often causes itching and watery discharge. These patterns overlap, so a clinician considers the whole eye examination, timing and other symptoms.

Conjunctivitis affects the eye surface, but a painful red eye with light sensitivity or vision change may indicate a more serious eye condition rather than uncomplicated pink eye.

Wash hands frequently and avoid rubbing the eyes. Soften crusts with clean water and a fresh disposable pad, wiping from the inner corner outward; use a new pad for each eye. Do not share towels, cosmetics or eye drops. Stop contact lenses until the eye is fully comfortable and a clinician says they can be used again. Arrange a GP consultation if discharge is heavy, symptoms are worsening or the diagnosis is uncertain. Antibiotic treatment should be used only when a clinician recommends it.

Seek prompt assessment for eye pain, reduced vision, strong light sensitivity, marked swelling, recent injury or chemical exposure. Contact-lens wearers with a red eye should be assessed promptly because corneal infection can threaten sight. Urgent care is needed for sudden vision loss or severe pain. Get advice if redness and discharge are not improving or keep returning.

Ask whether the discharge pattern suggests bacterial, viral or allergic inflammation, how long to avoid lenses, how to clean shared household surfaces, and what changes should trigger urgent review.