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What can cause the development of thick, white, sticky strands in the eyes?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am experiencing an issue where my eyes have been producing thick, white, sticky strings recently. Can you help me identify the cause?

Answered by Dr. Vandana Andrews

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

From your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing an increase in eye discharge or mucus production. There could be several potential causes for this, including:

  1. Dry Eyes: Insufficient tear production can cause the eyes to become dry and result in the formation of thick strings of mucus.
  2. Allergies: Allergic reactions to environmental factors such as pollen, dust, or pet dander can cause increased mucus production in the eyes.
  3. Conjunctivitis: Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye). It can cause excessive mucus discharge.
  4. Blepharitis: This is a condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins and can lead to increased mucus production and crustiness around the eyelashes.
  5. Infections: Eye infections, such as bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, can cause increased eye discharge.

I suggest you use an antibiotic eye drop like Ciprofloxacin and lubricant for discomfort. I hope this has helped you. Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At November 29, 2023
Reviewed At January 10, 2024

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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