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Small to large amounts of drainage and different types of drainage
may be caused by irritation, a foreign body, or infection. The drainage often
collects on the eyelashes and dries, causing the lashes to become matted
together. The eyelids may also swell during the night. Once the matted drainage
is removed, the swelling usually decreases.
Eye infections are usually caused by a virus or a bacteria. In some
parts of the world, eye infections may also be caused by fungus, parasites, or
other organisms. Drainage occurs with almost every type of eye infection, such
as pinkeye (conjunctivitis).
November 2, 2011
William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
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