Green eye discharge suggests a heavy bacterial component, sometimes involving organisms like Pseudomonas. It is often thick, copious, and concerning.
Serious Associations
Contact lens-related bacterial keratitis can produce greenish pus with pain, redness, and rapid vision loss. Severe conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, and orbital cellulitis may also show green discharge depending on the infecting organism.
- Green discharge nearly always warrants urgent medical attention
- Corneal ulcers can progress quickly and threaten sight
- Immunocompromised patients are particularly vulnerable to aggressive infections
- Contaminated contact lens cases and solutions are common sources
Urgent Management
Intensive antibiotic therapy, often using fortified drops, may be required. Hospital admission is sometimes needed for close monitoring and systemic treatment.
- Immediate cessation of contact lens wear is essential
- Swabs and cultures guide targeted antibiotic choice
- Delay in treatment significantly worsens prognosis
- Education about lens hygiene and replacement reduces recurrence risk
