Signs of disease detectable through eye discharge

If sticky yellow eye discharge is present, bacterial conjunctivitis or keratitis may be suspected. Especially if accompanied by redness and pain, the likelihood increases. When bacteria invade the eye, an acute infection occurs, and in response, the amount of eye discharge increases beyond normal levels. The yellow color of the eye discharge is due to pus produced by the bacteria itself and the inflammation. The phenomenon of sticky eye discharge also occurs simultaneously. Bacterial conjunctivitis or keratitis is treated with eye drops containing antibiotics. If left untreated, pain may persist, and in severe cases, corneal epithelial haze can develop, leading to vision impairment. Corneal epithelial haze refers to clouding of the mucous membrane caused by the cornea fighting against the virus.

Sticky, clear eye mucus can occur when dry eye syndrome is severe. When the eyes become dry, the viscosity of tears increases, causing clear mucus to stretch out into thin, thread-like strands. If you have dry eye syndrome, the surface of the eye is easily damaged, and you often feel a stinging, dryness, foreign body sensation, and fatigue. To treat dry eye syndrome, it is recommended to regularly use artificial tears and reduce the use of electronic devices such as smartphones and computers. If symptoms are severe or persistent, use gel or ointment-type artificial tears, and wear glasses instead of contact lenses.

If white, foamy eye discharge persistently sticks to the eyelids or eyelashes rather than inside the eyes, it could be blepharitis. Blepharitis occurs when bacteria or waste products block the oil glands that secrete oil from the skin of the eyelids or eyelashes. It usually appears when the immune system is weakened. Symptoms include eye discharge, tearing, eyelid swelling, and others. Regularly cleaning the eyelash roots and applying warm compresses can help prevent blepharitis.

Do not remove eye crusts by pulling them off with your fingers. Especially if you have an eye condition, secondary infection or complications may occur. It is better to gently remove them using saline-soaked cotton pads or tissues. If saline is not available, you can lightly dampen a clean cotton swab with water to remove them.

Meanwhile, if you notice more eye discharge than usual, you should reduce eye irritation through lifestyle improvements. You should also cut down on habits like rubbing your eyes and using electronic devices such as smartphones. Maintaining adequate sleep hours can help alleviate eye fatigue.