According to the Cleveland Clinic, the most common cause of mucus discharge from the eyes is conjunctivitis, or "pink eye." Conjunctivitis is an infection of the clear membrane that covers the eyeball, resulting in severe redness, itchiness and irritation. The infection causes inflammation in the eye, which could cause swelling around the eyes. Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious infection and should be evaluated by a doctor immediately, according to MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms
Mucus discharge from one or both eyes is a common symptom of conjunctivitis, although it should be accompanied by other symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. The discharge will be white or yellow in color and can create a crust over the closed eyes during sleep. Other symptoms include severe redness, itchiness, a scratchy feeling in the eyes and excessive tearing. MedlinePlus states that pain, blurred vision and sensitivity to light can also be symptoms of pink eye.
Causes
Conjunctivitis is caused by anything that can irritate the eye, breaking the clear barrier that protects it, according to MedlinePlus. The most common causes are bacteria, chemical exposure, fungi, overuse of contact lenses, parasites and other diseases. Allergic conjunctivitis is the result of an allergic reaction, typically from hay fever, and is not considered contagious. Only a doctor can determine the difference between pink eye that is contagious and allergic conjunctivitis that is not.
Treatment
The type of treatment will depend on the cause of the condition, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If the infection is the result of allergies, avoiding allergens and using over-the-counter antihistamines are recommended. Conjunctivitis resulting from a bacterial infection is treated with antibiotic eye drops to kill the bacteria. If the infection is viral in nature, it will have to be cured naturally by the human immune system. Conjunctivitis caused by the overuse of contact lenses is treated by using glasses until the infection clears.
Complications
MayoClinic.com states that pink eye can lead to infection in the cornea, which can have an impact on vision. Because conjunctivitis is highly contagious, it could spread throughout a household or classroom quickly, according to MedlinePlus. Children should remain at home until the condition is treated and cured.
Prevention
According to the Cleveland Clinic, rinsing any mucus discharge from the eye twice a day with a washcloth can help prevent spreading the infection. Do not touch or rub the eyes, share makeup or wear someone else's contact lenses. Change washcloths and pillowcases frequently.
