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External and internal eye anatomy
External and internal eye anatomy

Eye burning - itching and discharge
Definition:
This symptom describes 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 that should motivate social action. If smoke is annoying, say so. If an industrial plant in the area is polluting, contact the EPA for solutions.
Common Causes:
  • Allergy - including seasonal allergies or hayfever
  • Conjunctivitis or pink eye (a viral infection of the eye surface)
  • Irritant in the air (cigarette smoke or smog)
  • Chemical conjunctivitis (such as chlorinated swimming pool or makeup)
  • Bacterial infections
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 several times a day (4-6 times) can also relieve symptoms. Avoid over-the-counter eyedrops because they will eventually make the symptoms worse.

Itching and burning due to allergy or chemicals can be very uncomfortable. Attempt to determine the cause of the allergy such as a cat, seasonal, mascara etc. Refrigerated artificial tears can be very soothing. Antihistamine drops can be helpful, and they are available from your health care provider.

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, you should contact your health care provider.
Call your health care provider if:
  • Vision is decreased.
  • Excessive eye pain or sensitivity to light.
  • The discharge is thick, greenish, or resembles pus.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail 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
The physical examination may include a check of vision, eye motion, eyelids, and the reaction of pupils to light.

Intervention:
Antihistamines (in the form of eye-drops or ointments) may be prescribed. Cortisone-like eye ointments may be prescribed infrequently; it will reduce many types of inflammation, but certain infections (such as herpes) can get worse with this medication.

After seeing your health care provider:
If symptoms do not improve or are worse in one to two weeks, contact your health care professional. Occasionally, additional treatments are needed.
Review Date: 11/4/2001
Reviewed By: Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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