When you are sick, waking up with “crusty eyes” is a common experience. This refers to the accumulation of dried discharge, often a mix of mucus, oils, and sometimes pus, around your eyelids and eyelashes. While typically a harmless symptom of your body fighting off an illness, understanding its causes and proper care can be helpful.
Common Reasons for Crusty Eyes
Viral infections frequently cause watery eyes that can lead to crusting. Common colds, the flu, and other viral illnesses often result in increased tear production and inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. This type of conjunctivitis typically improves on its own within one to two weeks.
Bacterial infections, such as bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye), are another common culprit. This type of infection often produces a thicker, opaque discharge that can be yellowish or greenish, frequently causing eyelids to stick together upon waking. This pus-like discharge usually requires medical intervention.
Allergies can also contribute to crusty eyes, especially if you are experiencing cold-like symptoms. Allergic conjunctivitis often presents with itchy, watery eyes, and the increased tearing can lead to dried discharge. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
Sometimes, inflammation from an illness can temporarily exacerbate or block tear ducts. When tears cannot drain properly, they become stagnant, creating an environment where bacteria, viruses, or fungi can grow, leading to discharge and potential infection. This blockage can result in watery eyes and sticky discharge.
Gentle Care for Your Eyes
Applying a warm compress helps soften and loosen dried crusts around your eyes. Soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water, wring it out until damp, and place it gently over your closed eyelids for 5 to 10 minutes. Reheat the cloth every two minutes to maintain warmth and soothe inflammation.
After using a warm compress, gently clean away the softened discharge. Use a fresh, clean cloth or cotton ball moistened with warm water for each eye. Carefully wipe from the inner corner of the eye outwards along the lash line, avoiding rubbing or irritating the delicate eye area. This helps remove debris.
Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading any infection. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your eyes. Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, or eye makeup with others, as this can transmit infectious agents.
When experiencing crusty eyes, avoid potential irritants. Refrain from wearing contact lenses until your symptoms resolve, as they can trap bacteria and worsen irritation. Similarly, avoid using eye makeup or harsh soaps near your eyes.
Knowing When to See a Doctor
If crusting or other eye symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of home care, medical evaluation may be necessary. For instance, if the discharge does not improve after three days of using antibiotic eye drops, or if symptoms continue for a week or more, seek professional medical advice.
Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or increased sensitivity to light, warrant prompt medical attention. Any pain in the eye that is more than mild discomfort should also be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Severe redness or swelling, especially if it spreads beyond the eyelid, indicates a need for a doctor’s visit. If the discharge is thick and pus-like, particularly if it is yellow or green, this often suggests a bacterial infection that may require prescription treatment.
A fever accompanying eye symptoms, especially a temperature over 104°F (40°C), signals a need for medical consultation. For infants under 12 weeks old, any fever or significant eye discharge, particularly if it is red or very swollen, necessitates urgent medical attention.