What Causes Inflammation And Discharge From Lower Eyelids?

My husband, 90 years old, has inflamed lower eyelids with a discharge from inside the lower lid. The doctor has given him chlorophenol ointment but it is out of date now and his right eye is very painful toight. I have bathed it twice with boiled water and a little baby shampoo, as instructed, but I wonder if I can use Vaseline to give him some relief?