Why does allergic conjunctivitis cause eye discharge?

When pollen, dust, animal dander or another trigger contacts the eye, the immune system can release chemicals that cause itching, redness and swelling. Tears may become more watery, and mucus can look clear, white or stringy. Rubbing tends to irritate the surface further. Eye Discharge is a common presentation of Allergic Conjunctivitis, but discharge can also result from infection, a blocked tear duct or another eye problem. Thick yellow or green discharge needs clinical assessment.

Wash your hands before touching the eye and avoid rubbing it. A cool clean compress may soothe itch and swelling. If you wear contact lenses, remove them while the eye is irritated and use glasses until you have clinical advice. Reducing contact with a suspected trigger may help. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable allergy eye drops and whether they fit with your health conditions or other medicines.

Seek urgent eye assessment for eye pain, sensitivity to light, reduced vision, a severe headache with eye symptoms, significant swelling around the eye, injury, or a chemical splash. Contact a clinician promptly if discharge becomes thick or coloured, the eyelids are stuck together, symptoms affect one eye markedly, or there is no improvement with simple measures. Contact-lens wearers with a red painful eye should be assessed urgently.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergy or infection, what triggers may be involved, and which drops are suitable. Tell the clinician if you wear contact lenses, have changed eye products, or have pain or any change in vision.