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Eye burning - itching and discharge

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Definition:

Eye burning with discharge is 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 might be eliminated by social action. If secondhand cigarette smoke is annoying, say so. If an industrial plant in the area is polluting, contact the EPA for solutions.

Common Causes:

• Allergies , including seasonal allergies or hayfever
• Conjunctivitis or pink eye (a viral infection of the eye surface)
• Irritants in the air (cigarette smoke or smog)
• Chemical irritants (such as chlorine in a swimming pool or makeup)
• Bacterial infections

• Review Date: 12/15/2005
• Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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