Definition
Eye burning with discharge is burning, itching, or drainage from the eye of any substance other than tears.
Alternative Names
Itching – burning eyes; Burning eyes
Considerations
Sometimes burning and itching eyes are due to environmental pollutants. If secondhand cigarette smoke is annoying, say so. If an industrial plant in the area is polluting, contact the EPA for solutions.
Common Causes
Allergies , including seasonal allergies or hay fever- Bacterial infections
- Chemical irritants (such as chlorine in a swimming pool or makeup)
Conjunctivitis orpink eye Dry eyes Irritants in the air (cigarette smoke or smog)
Home Care
Apply cool compresses to soothe itching.
If the eyelids have crusts, gently soften them with warm compresses. Gently washing the eyelids with baby shampoo on a cotton applicator can help remove crusts.
Artificial tears used 4 – 6 times a day can also relieve symptoms. Avoid other types of eye drops because they will can make symptoms worse.
Itching and burning due to allergy or chemicals can be very uncomfortable. Try to determine the cause of the allergy, such as a pet, seasonal pollen, or irritating cosmetics.
Refrigerated artificial tears can be very soothing. Antihistamine drops, available from your health care provider, can be helpful.
Pink eye or viral conjunctivitis causes a red or bloodshot eye and excessive tearing. If you suspect pink eye, remember to wash your hands often, and avoid touching the unaffected eye. The infection will run its course in about 10 days.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is not common, but if you have eye discharge that is white, yellow, or greenish, contact your health care provider.
Call your health care provider if
Contact your health care provider if:
- The discharge is thick, greenish, or resembles pus
- You have excessive eye pain or sensitivity to light
- Your vision is decreased
What to expect at your health care provider’s office
Your health care provider will get a medical history and will perform a
Medical history questions may include:
- What does the eye drainage look like?
- Is it thick?
- Is it yellow?
- Does it look like pus?
- Is it green?
- Is it bloody?
- Is it clear?
- Other questions
- What other symptoms do you have?
- Do you have
decreased vision ? - Do you have
eye pain ? - Do you have light sensitivity (
photophobia )?
The physical examination may include a check of your:
-
Eyelids
-
Eye motion
-
Reaction of your pupils to light
-
Vision
Treatment:
Your health care provider may prescribe antihistamines in the form of eye drops or ointments. Bacterial conjunctivitis will be treated with antibiotic eye drops. Cortisone-like eye ointments are usually avoided, because they can cause long-term problems.
After seeing your health care provider:
If your symptoms do not improve or they worsen in 1 – 2 weeks, contact your health care professional. You might need additional treatments.