White or off‑white eye discharge is usually mucous rather than pus. It often accompanies mild irritation or chronic conditions.
Likely Conditions
Dry eye, allergic or viral conjunctivitis, and blepharitis frequently cause whitish strands or small clumps at the inner corners. Some contact lens wearers develop white mucous plaques on the lenses or lids due to giant papillary conjunctivitis.
- Symptoms may include itching, grittiness, and intermittent blur
- Discharge is typically less thick and yellow than in bacterial infection
- Chronic white mucus can accumulate in the lower fornix in dry eye disease
- Certain topical medications leave whitish residue when they dry
Treatment
Management focuses on improving tear film stability, controlling allergy or lid disease, and adjusting contact lens wear. Assessment ensures bacterial infection is not missed when discharge becomes more coloured or copious.
- Regular lid cleaning and lubricants usually reduce white discharge
- Allergy drops help when itching and seasonal patterns are present
- Contact lenses may need a break or refitting
- Seek review if white discharge turns yellow or green with pain or redness
