“Sleep” in your eyes, medically known as rheum or eye discharge, is the common accumulation of matter that gathers in the corners of the eyes overnight. This phenomenon is a natural part of the eye’s self-cleaning process. A small amount of clear or light-colored crust usually indicates healthy eye function, but changes in its color, consistency, or quantity can signal an underlying issue. Understanding the difference between normal morning residue and abnormal discharge is important for eye health.
The Biological Purpose of Eye Discharge
The appearance of eye discharge upon waking is a direct result of the eye’s continuous effort to cleanse itself. Throughout the day, the tear film washes away debris, dust, and old cells from the surface of the eye. This debris, combined with mucus and oil, is normally flushed out through the tear ducts or wiped away by blinking.
The discharge, or rheum, is composed primarily of mucus, meibum (an oily substance), dead skin cells, and environmental particles. This combination creates a sticky substance that traps contaminants, preventing them from irritating the ocular surface. When you are awake, blinking washes this matter away before it can solidify.
During sleep, the eyes are closed and the blinking mechanism is paused. Without this flushing action, the accumulated tear components and debris gather in the inner corner of the eye. As the watery part of the tears evaporates overnight, the remaining mucus and oil dry into the familiar crusty residue. A small amount of this whitish or pale cream-colored crust in the morning is a normal sign that the eyes have been effectively cleaning themselves.
Indicators of Abnormal Eye Discharge
While a minimal, dry, and light-colored crust is normal, any significant change in the eye discharge indicates a potential problem. Excessive discharge that occurs throughout the day, not just upon waking, is often the first sign of an issue. This increased volume suggests the eye is producing more waste or fighting off an irritant or infection.
A change in color is a reliable warning sign of an infection, particularly a bacterial one. Discharge that appears thick, yellow, or green often indicates the presence of pus and inflammatory cells, which can be a symptom of bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye). Bacterial infections can produce such a sticky discharge that the eyelids may be glued shut upon waking.
Consistency also offers clues, as discharge that is stringy or overly sticky may point to conditions like dry eye syndrome or allergic conjunctivitis. Abnormal discharge is frequently accompanied by other symptoms, including redness, persistent pain, swelling of the eyelid, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision. If these signs are observed, especially if the discharge is discolored or excessive, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Safe Practices for Eye Hygiene
Proper eye hygiene is necessary for safely removing normal morning discharge and preventing the spread of infections. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or the surrounding area. This minimizes the risk of introducing bacteria or other contaminants into the eye.
To remove dried or crusty rheum, first soften the material with a warm compress or clean cloth dampened with warm water. Gently apply the compress to the closed eyelid for a minute or two to loosen the crust, making it easier to wipe away without irritation. When wiping, move the cloth or cotton ball from the inner corner of the eye outward.
Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can introduce germs and potentially scratch the delicate surface of the eye. If one eye seems infected, do not use the same cloth or cotton for both eyes to prevent cross-contamination. Maintaining clean bedding and regularly replacing eye makeup, particularly mascara and eyeliner, are simple steps that reduce the buildup of irritants and bacteria near the eyes.