Eye discharge refers to the buildup of mucus, oil and skin cells that settles in the corner of your eye while you sleep. Some people also call it eye booger, eye pus, or eye gunk. Depending on how much of the liquid it contains, it can be dry and crusty or moist and sticky.
Learn whether eye gunk is a cause of concern or not from a local provider of contact lenses.
Should You Be Worried About Eye Discharge?
Also referred to as “rheum,” eye discharge is an indication of good eye health. It is made of thin, watery mucus created by the conjunctiva and meibum, which is secreted by the meibomian glands which moisturize your eyes between blinks. Usually, eye discharge does not call for a visit to a specialist. However, if there is a change in its consistency, quantity, and color, it could be a sign of eye disease or infection.
Eye Conditions Related to Eye Discharge
Conjunctivitis
Have you noticed green or gray thick mucus coming from your eyes? If so, it could indicate that you have bacterial conjunctivitis. This condition causes your eyelids to become stuck shut when you wake up in the morning. A pus-producing bacteria causes conjunctivitis. You may need to visit a specialist and get an eye exam for proper diagnosis and treatment because there are different types of conjunctivitis.
Stye
A stye can cause yellow mucus with a small lump on your eyelid. When the eyelid glands get clogged and infected, they can produce mucus. You may feel that your eye is sore and sensitive to light if you have a stye. There may be a reddish lump on your eyelid as well. If you do have a stye, never attempt to squeeze it like a pimple because it can lead to a skin infection. It is best to let your eye doctor check it.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis refers to the inflammation of eyelash hair follicles or the abnormal oil production of the meibomian glands at the eyelids’ inner edge. Meibomian gland dysfunction can cause foamy eye discharge, eyelid crusting, and yellow or green eye pus.
For your vision and eye health needs, you can rely on Vienna Eyecare Center. Whether you need new eyeglasses or eye disease treatment, we are here to help. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or fill out our contact form to make an appointment. We serve patients in Fairfax, Reston, and Tysons Corner, VA.
