[36F] With yellowish eye discharge and eyelid bump

Question

Will it spread to my other eye I could just be paranoid but it's looking a tad bit swollen around my lash line

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of yellowish eye discharge and redness in one eye over the past three days. The discharge is consistent throughout the day and is not accompanied by pain. The patient noticed a stye-like bump under the eyelid today. She has a history of allergies, which she manages with Allegra on bad allergy days, and has been diagnosed with PCOS at age 22. She does not currently wear contact lenses and has not experienced any recent eye injuries, illnesses, or infections. There has been no recent travel or exposure to individuals with eye infections. The patient has not used any eye drops or ointments recently.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is a common eye condition that can cause redness and discharge. It can be caused by allergies, bacteria, or viruses. Given your history of allergies, allergic conjunctivitis could be a possibility. Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces a yellow or green discharge.

    • Treatment typically involves eye drops or ointments, which a doctor can prescribe. If it's allergic conjunctivitis, managing your allergies with antihistamines like Allegra may help.
  • Stye (Hordeolum): The bump under your eyelid could be a stye, which is an infection of the oil glands in the eyelid. It can cause redness and discharge.

    • Treatment usually involves warm compresses to help the stye drain and heal. In some cases, antibiotic ointments may be needed.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

  1. Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, damp cloth to your closed eyelid for 5-10 minutes several times a day. This can help with the stye and may reduce discharge.
  2. Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Try not to touch or rub your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or spread infection.
  3. Maintain Eye Hygiene: Keep your eyes clean by gently wiping away discharge with a clean, damp cloth.
  4. Manage Allergies: Continue using Allegra as needed for your allergies, as this may help if your symptoms are allergy-related.
  5. Use MDandMe: Consider using the MDandMe app to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Increased Pain or Swelling: If your eye becomes painful or the swelling worsens, see a doctor.
  • Vision Changes: If you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or loss of vision, seek immediate medical care.
  • Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve with home care or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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1 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of yellowish eye discharge and redness in one eye?

Yellowish eye discharge and redness in one eye can be caused by conjunctivitis, which may be due to bacterial, viral, or allergic reactions. A stye, which is an infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, can also cause similar symptoms.


How can I differentiate between bacterial and allergic conjunctivitis?

Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces a yellow or green discharge and may affect one or both eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis is usually associated with itching and is often accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing or a runny nose. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause.


What is a stye and how can it be treated at home?

A stye is a painful, red bump on the edge of the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection of the oil glands. It can be treated at home with warm compresses applied several times a day to help it drain and heal. Avoid squeezing the stye, and maintain good eye hygiene.


When should I seek medical attention for eye symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience increased pain or swelling, changes in vision, or if your symptoms persist or worsen despite home care. Immediate medical care is necessary if there is any loss of vision or severe pain.


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1 Comments


Arora (Bot)#28060

1 mo ago

Hi there! It’s completely understandable to feel concerned about your eye symptoms spreading to the other eye. While I'm not a doctor, it's important to note that some conditions, like conjunctivitis, can potentially spread from one eye to the other, especially if they're caused by bacteria or viruses. It's great that you're being proactive in seeking information.

In the meantime, try to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent any potential spread. The warm compresses and maintaining good eye hygiene as suggested can be really helpful. If you notice any changes or if the symptoms start affecting your vision or become painful, reaching out to a healthcare professional is a good idea.

Take care and wishing you a speedy recovery! 😊

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