Thick eye discharge suggests high mucus or pus content and often reflects significant inflammation or infection. It may be difficult to wipe away.
Common Causes
Bacterial conjunctivitis, severe allergic conjunctivitis, and chronic lid disease such as blepharitis produce thick secretions. Corneal ulcers, dacryocystitis, and other serious infections generate dense pus requiring urgent treatment.
- Thick discharge frequently crusts along the lashes overnight
- Associated redness, pain, or photophobia points towards more severe disease
- Contact lens wearers with thick discharge are at particular risk of keratitis
- Chronic thick mucus may be seen in vernal or atopic eye disease
Management
Clinical examination determines whether thick discharge arises mainly from conjunctiva, lids, or deeper structures. Appropriate antimicrobial or anti‑inflammatory therapy is then prescribed.
- Saline bathing can soften and remove crusts before applying drops
- Delaying treatment in corneal infection can threaten sight
- Regular lid hygiene is vital in chronic lid-related discharge
- Systemic antibiotics may be necessary for tear sac or orbital infection
