White Eye Discharge in Adults

White eye discharge usually indicates eye inflammation, which can accompany a variety of eye conditions. Inflammation of the conjunctiva — the thin tissue that lines the eyelids and covers the surface of the eye — is the most typical cause. Conditions impacting the eyelids are likewise frequently to blame. Other eye conditions can also cause white eye discharge. Accompanying symptoms and signs and an eye examination aid distinguish among the possible causes of white eye discharge.

What Causes White Stringy Mucus in Eye

Infectious Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, likewise called pink eye, refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva. This condition typically affects both eyes, normally starting in one eye and after that infecting the other. A lot of cases of conjunctivitis are because of a viral infection, although a bacterial infection is in some cases to blame. Watery, stringy or white eye discharge is common with viral conjunctivitis. Other common symptoms include eye inflammation and pain. Bacterial conjunctivitis causes comparable symptoms however the eye discharge is normally thicker, more plentiful, and yellowish or greenish in color. However, the color and consistency of eye discharge can not be used to definitively differentiate between viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, as there is substantial variation.

 

Noninfectious Conjunctivitis

Irritation of the conjunctiva can happen due to noninfectious causes. Allergies that impact the eyes, such as a pollen or animal threat allergic reaction, are typically associated with itchy, watery eyes and a stringy discharge that may be clear or white. Amongst contact lens users, a condition called huge papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) can develop. This allergic condition frequently causes eye redness, swelling and whitish discharge. Dry eye syndrome represents another regular cause of noninfectious conjunctivitis, which can cause stringy clear or white eye discharge. Airborne irritants, such as cigarette smoke and chemical fumes, might also be to blame. In some people, level of sensitivity to preservatives in eye drops or contact lens solutions may irritate the conjunctiva, leading to redness and eye discharge.

Eyelid Conditions

Blepharitis explains inflammation of the rims of the eyelids of both eyes. This common condition normally establishes slowly and has the tendency to continue or recur. Whitish to yellow-colored eye discharge can happen in addition to soreness of the rim of the eye, eyelid swelling, crusts or flakes in the eyelashes, and a gritty or itchy feeling in the eyes. Staphylococcal bacteria, malfunction of the oil glands near the eyelashes, and a skin problem called seborrheic dermatitis — or a combination of these factors — generally contribute to the development of blepharitis. Although far less common than blepharitis, growths of the eyelids can cause symptoms virtually similar to those of blepharitis.

Cautions and Precautions

Some of the most common causes of white eye discharge do not pose a risk to your vision. However, some eye conditions that can activate eye discharge — consisting of some not formerly discussed, such as a deep eye scratch or swelling of the white part of the eye — are possibly serious. See your doctor if you experience sudden, relentless or getting worse eye discharge to figure out the underlying cause and best course of treatment. Look for immediate medical care if your symptoms are related to an eye injury, or if you experience any signs or symptoms that might indicate a serious issue, consisting of:

• eye pain
• a sudden change in your vision
• massive discharge from one or both eyes
• severe swelling of the eyelids
• pupils irregularly shaped or of unequal size
• painful rash around the eye