What Does It Mean When Your Eyes Are Yellow?

Yellowing of the eyes — whether in the sclera (white of the eye) or as yellow discharge (eye mucus) — is not a condition in itself but a visible symptom that can signal a range of underlying health issues, from minor eye infections to serious systemic diseases like liver dysfunction or biliary disorders.

Understanding what causes yellowing in or around the eyes is essential to determining when to seek medical attention and what treatment is needed.

Yellowing of the Sclera (Yellow Eye Whites)

When the whites of your eyes turn yellow, this is medically referred to as scleral icterus. It usually indicates a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.

Common Causes:

• Liver disease
  Such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease

• Gallbladder or bile duct obstruction
  Including gallstones or tumors blocking bile flow

• Hemolytic anemia
  Rapid breakdown of red blood cells leading to bilirubin overload

• Pancreatic disease
  Conditions that interfere with bile drainage

• Alcohol-related liver damage

• Newborn jaundice
  Temporary condition in infants due to immature liver function

This yellowing of the eyes often appears alongside jaundice in the skin and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, dark urine, or abdominal pain.

Yellow Eye Discharge (Yellow Mucus in Eyes)

Unlike scleral yellowing, yellow discharge from the eyes is typically a sign of an ocular infection or inflammation. It may appear as crust around the eyes in the morning or sticky mucus during the day.

Common Causes:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
  Characterized by thick yellow or green discharge, redness, and irritation

• Blepharitis
  Chronic eyelid inflammation leading to yellowish crusting

• Blocked tear duct (especially in infants)
  Causes fluid and mucus to accumulate

• Keratitis
  Infection of the cornea, may include pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity

• Eye injuries
  Resulting in secondary infection or discharge

• Allergic conjunctivitis
  Usually produces clear discharge, but can mix with mucus and bacteria

If yellow discharge is persistent or associated with pain, swelling, or blurred vision, it should be assessed by an eye doctor.

When to Worry About Yellow Eyes

You should seek urgent medical evaluation if:

• Both eyes show sudden yellowing

• Yellowing is accompanied by jaundice or dark urine

• Yellow discharge is thick and persistent

• You experience eye pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes

• You have a history of liver disease or substance use

Early detection of systemic or ocular conditions can prevent serious complications, including vision loss or organ damage.

Diagnosis at Bangkok Eye Hospital

At Bangkok Eye Hospital, we provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of yellow eyes or discharge. Diagnosis may include:

• Slit-lamp eye examination to assess the cornea, conjunctiva, and discharge

• Tear duct assessment in infants or adults with chronic discharge

• Liver function blood tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin) if scleral icterus is present

• Ultrasound or imaging of the liver and biliary tract if indicated

• Conjunctival swab or culture for infection detection

We also work closely with internal medicine or hepatology specialists when liver disease is suspected.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

For Yellow Sclera (Systemic Cause):

• Liver disease management: Includes antiviral therapy, alcohol cessation, or liver support

• Gallstones or biliary obstruction: May require surgical removal or stenting

• Dietary changes: For fatty liver or metabolic conditions

• Medical management: For autoimmune liver conditions or genetic disorders

For Yellow Eye Discharge (Ocular Cause):

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments: For bacterial conjunctivitis or keratitis

• Warm compresses and lid hygiene: For blepharitis or mild discharge

• Tear duct massage or minor surgery: For blocked tear ducts

• Steroid drops (under supervision): For severe inflammation

• Lubricating drops: For dry eyes or irritation-related discharge

How to Prevent Eye Discoloration or Discharge

• Maintain good hand and facial hygiene

• Avoid sharing towels, cosmetics, or eye drops

• Treat systemic conditions such as diabetes or liver disease promptly

• Wear protective eyewear in dusty or hazardous environments

• Use contact lenses properly and cleanly

Regular eye exams can also detect early signs of systemic illness and protect your vision.

Related Services at Bangkok Eye Hospital

To ensure complete and individualized care, Bangkok Eye Hospital offers:

• Ocular Surface and Red Eye Clinic
  For discharge, infection, and conjunctivitis

• Corneal and Anterior Segment Clinic
  For keratitis, foreign bodies, and trauma

• Comprehensive Eye Examinations
  Screening for early signs of systemic or ocular disease

• Pediatric Eye Care
  For blocked tear ducts and neonatal eye conditions

• Multidisciplinary Referral System
  For cases involving liver or systemic disease requiring internal medicine collaboration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is yellow sclera always a sign of liver disease?
Often, yes. Yellow sclera usually indicates elevated bilirubin levels, commonly from liver or bile duct issues.

Can an eye infection cause yellow discharge without redness?
Usually, yellow discharge is associated with some degree of redness or irritation, but mild cases may not be obvious.

Can I treat yellow eye discharge at home?
Mild cases may improve with warm compresses and eyelid cleaning, but antibiotics may be necessary for bacterial infections.

Is yellow eye discharge contagious?
If caused by bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, yes — it can be contagious through contact with secretions.

Can newborns have yellow eyes or discharge?
Yes. Newborn jaundice is common and usually temporary. Yellow discharge can result from a blocked tear duct, which often resolves over time but may require treatment.