Pus discharge from the eyes is thick, yellow, or green and indicates bacterial infection or, less commonly, severe inflammation. It often glues the eyelids together.
Common Conditions
Bacterial conjunctivitis is the usual cause, producing copious sticky pus and redness. More serious infections such as bacterial keratitis, orbital cellulitis, and dacryocystitis also create purulent discharge, usually with pain, swelling, and vision changes.
- Contact lens-related keratitis is an important sight-threatening source
- Infants may develop pus from infected tear ducts or neonatal conjunctivitis
- Immunosuppression increases risk of severe ocular infection
- Untreated pus-forming infections can scar the cornea or spread to deeper tissues
Clinical Action
Pus discharge warrants prompt assessment to determine severity and appropriate antibiotics. Swabs or cultures may be taken in resistant or severe cases.
- Patients should stop contact lens wear until cleared by a professional
- Good hygiene and avoiding shared towels reduce transmission
- Urgent care is needed if pus is accompanied by significant pain or blurred vision
- Systemic antibiotics may be required in orbital or tear sac infections
