First, where does eye discharge come from? The scientific name for eye discharge is "eye secretions." Why does eye discharge occur? It's like the windshield wipers on a car. When you wipe, they remove the dirt off the windshield. Similarly, our eyes have a local cleaning system. After working for a while, the oil mixes with aging cells, dust, and microorganisms in the eye to form eye discharge.

How can we distinguish between healthy and unhealthy eye discharge? Under normal circumstances, healthy eye discharge is granular and mostly white or light yellow. However, if you are exposed to dust during the day or if you don't remove your makeup properly, your eye discharge may be a little gray or black. These are normal physiological phenomena and there is no need to worry.

If you have unhealthy eye discharge, there are three possibilities!

Viral conjunctivitis:

Viral conjunctivitis is caused by various viral infections and is highly contagious. Symptoms include strong photophobia and a foreign body sensation in the eye, increased eye discharge, and noticeable bloodshot eyes.

Bacterial conjunctivitis:

Some people don't pay attention to eye hygiene and like to touch their eyes with their fingernails, dirty tissues, etc., which can easily lead to bacterial infections of the eyes. After infection, symptoms include increased eye discharge, stringy eye discharge, itchy corners of the eyes, and red and swollen eyelids. In severe cases, purulent eye discharge may also occur.

Allergic conjunctivitis:

Allergic conjunctivitis is a common autoimmune disease, mainly caused by seasonal factors and common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and fungi. Symptoms may include itchy eyes, photophobia, tearing, burning sensation, and increased discharge.

eye drops

Eye drops are one of the most commonly used drug formulations for eye diseases. They have a direct and quick therapeutic effect on many eye conditions. However, it is best to avoid using eye drops if possible. Eye drops contain a certain amount of preservatives, and frequent use can damage the normal tear film of the human eye. Long-term use, combined with prolonged computer use, can easily lead to dry eye syndrome.

Here's a brief introduction to the different types of eye drops, but please remember to use them under the guidance of a doctor. Do not use medications arbitrarily.

Antibiotic eye drops:

It can usually be used to treat eye diseases caused by bacterial infections, such as blepharitis, keratitis, and dacryocystitis. Commonly used eye drops include levofloxacin eye drops and tobramycin eye drops.

Antiviral eye drops:

It is suitable for various eye infections caused by viruses and bacteria, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and meibomianitis. Common types include acyclovir eye drops and ribavirin eye drops.

Intraocular pressure lowering eye drops:

For lowering intraocular pressure in angle-closure glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension, etc., commonly used eye drops include brimonidine tartrate and carteolol hydrochloride.

Can makeup harm the eyes?

The answer is yes, frequent use of eye makeup can be harmful to the eyes, causing conditions such as milia, conjunctivitis, and styes. If you experience any discomfort in your eyes, please see a doctor promptly for diagnosis to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Milia:

If you frequently wear eye makeup and don't clean it properly, makeup residue may accumulate on your eyelids, causing oil buildup, clogged pores, and milia (white bumps) to appear on your eyelids. These are often asymptomatic but can affect your appearance.

Conjunctivitis:

Frequent use of eye makeup can lead to cosmetics, dust, and pathogens entering the eyes, potentially causing conjunctivitis, resulting in conjunctival congestion, edema, and symptoms such as red, itchy eyes and increased discharge.

Stye:

Frequently wearing eye makeup and failing to remove it promptly can disrupt the metabolism of the skin around the eyes. Makeup residue can clog pores, making it easier for bacteria to invade and cause inflammation, resulting in symptoms such as increased secretions, redness, swelling, and burning sensation.

It is recommended to wear less eye makeup, use high-quality cosmetics, keep the eye area clean and hygienic, and make sure to remove makeup thoroughly every day.

Finally, here are a few tips for protecting your eyes.

1. Wash your hands frequently: Washing your hands frequently is always a good idea.

2. Look into the distance: After using a computer or mobile phone for a long time, look into the distance.

3. Greenery to the Rescue: Placing green plants on your desk and gazing at them frequently can relieve eye strain.

4. Blinking and eye movement: Blinking helps clean our eyes. Then close your eyes and look left, right, up, and down, making a circle with your eyeballs.

5. Vegetables and fruits: Eat more green vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, and zucchini, and more fruits, such as bananas, grapes, peaches, and tomatoes.

6. Ultimate skill: Eye exercises: