Eye discharge, often referred to by the colloquial term “squinnies,” is the common crusty or sticky substance found in the corners of the eyes upon waking. This material, scientifically known as rheum, is a natural consequence of the eye’s protective function during sleep. While it is generally a harmless accumulation, understanding the composition and safe removal methods is important for maintaining eye comfort and hygiene. This guide offers insights into why this discharge forms, how to safely remove it, and preventative habits to reduce its recurrence.
What Causes Eye Discharge (Colloquially “Squinnies”)
The tear film constantly bathes the eye, composed of water, oil, and mucus, trapping foreign particles like dust and dead skin cells. During the day, continuous blinking flushes this mixture of tears and debris through the nasolacrimal duct, preventing buildup. When a person sleeps, the eyes are closed, and blinking ceases, allowing this mixture to collect instead of drain away. The liquid components evaporate overnight, leaving behind the thicker, dried residue of mucus, oil (meibum), skin cells, and trapped particles. This resulting substance is the crust that adheres to the eyelashes and the inner corner of the eye.
While some overnight accumulation is normal, certain factors can increase the amount of discharge. Mild dry eye syndrome, for example, can lead to stringy or white mucus production as the eye attempts to compensate. Environmental irritants like pollen, dust, or pet dander can also prompt the eye to produce more mucus as a defense mechanism.
Immediate and Safe Removal Methods
Safe removal focuses on loosening the crusty material without causing irritation or introducing infection. Before touching the eyes, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water to prevent transferring bacteria or contaminants. Rubbing the eyes directly with fingers should be avoided completely, as this can irritate the delicate eye surface and push debris further into the eye.
The most effective and gentle removal method involves using a warm compress to rehydrate and soften the dried discharge. A clean cloth, such as a washcloth or cotton pad, should be soaked in warm, not hot, water and the excess moisture wrung out. This warm compress is then placed over the closed eye for a few minutes, which helps to loosen any sticky or crusted material clinging to the lashes and eyelids.
After the discharge has softened, the cloth can be used to gently wipe the area. The wiping motion must always be directed away from the eye, moving from the inner corner toward the outer edge. Using a fresh, clean section of the cloth or a new cloth entirely for each wipe is important to avoid reintroducing debris or spreading any potential irritants between the eyes. If the discharge is particularly sticky and causes the eyelids to feel glued shut, repeating the warm compress application may be necessary before attempting to wipe.
Daily Habits to Prevent Recurring Discharge
Reducing the amount of recurring eye discharge involves proactive hygiene and environmental management. One of the most effective habits is ensuring that all eye makeup, particularly mascara and eyeliner, is thoroughly removed every night. Residual makeup can clog the oil-producing meibomian glands along the eyelid margin, leading to inflammation and increased discharge.
Maintaining a clean sleep environment is also important, as dust and allergens can settle on bedding. Regularly changing pillowcases, ideally every few days, helps reduce the concentration of potential irritants near the eyes. Keep hands away from the face throughout the day to prevent the direct transfer of dirt and germs that can trigger increased mucus production.
Adequate hydration is beneficial for overall eye health, as drinking sufficient water supports the production of a healthy, balanced tear film. If the air in the bedroom is dry, utilizing a humidifier can help maintain environmental moisture. Proper contact lens hygiene, including removing lenses at night and replacing them as directed, is also crucial, as lenses can harbor debris and increase irritation.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
While the morning accumulation of clear or light yellow eye crust is a normal, harmless occurrence, certain changes in the discharge warrant professional medical evaluation. A doctor should be consulted if the discharge is consistently thick, green, or dark yellow, as this coloration often indicates a bacterial infection, such as bacterial conjunctivitis. Experiencing discharge that is excessive and occurs constantly throughout the day, rather than just upon waking, is also a sign that something more than normal rheum formation is happening. Any eye discharge accompanied by other concerning symptoms suggests an underlying condition requiring treatment.
These symptoms include:
- Noticeable eye pain
- Significant redness that persists
- Swelling of the eyelid
- A sudden increased sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision or a feeling of grit that does not resolve
If the amount of discharge is so severe that it consistently glues the eyelids shut, prompt consultation with an eye care professional is necessary to rule out or treat conditions like corneal ulcers, severe dry eye, or various forms of conjunctivitis.