Sticky eyes refer to a common symptom where a discharge causes the eyelids to stick together, particularly noticeable upon waking. This discharge often consists of mucus, tears, oil, and other secretions that accumulate on the eye’s surface and margins. This accumulation can make it difficult to open the eyes.
Common Causes
Blocked tear ducts are a frequent reason for sticky eyes, especially in infants. The nasolacrimal duct system, which drains tears from the eye into the nose, may not be fully developed or can become obstructed. When tears cannot drain properly, they accumulate on the eye’s surface, mixing with natural oils and mucus. This results in a sticky discharge that can cause eyelids to stick together.
Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, is another widespread cause of sticky eyes. This inflammation prompts the eye to produce an increased amount of discharge, which varies in consistency. Bacterial conjunctivitis often results in a thick, yellowish or greenish pus-like discharge. Viral conjunctivitis produces a more watery or clear, stringy mucus. Allergic conjunctivitis also causes increased discharge, often clear and stringy, accompanied by itching and redness.
Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid margins, contributes to sticky eyes due to issues with the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes. These meibomian glands can become blocked or inflamed, leading to abnormal oil secretions and the formation of crusts along the lash line. These crusts, combined with dried tears and skin cells, can cause the eyelids to stick. The condition can also lead to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
Dry eyes can result in sticky eyes. When eyes are excessively dry, they may produce a thick, stringy mucus as a compensatory mechanism to protect the ocular surface. This type of discharge, often described as stringy or rope-like, can accumulate and cause the eyelids to feel sticky or crusty. The lack of adequate tear film stability can lead to irritation and the formation of these viscous secretions.
External factors like environmental irritants or foreign bodies can provoke the eye to produce more tears and discharge, resulting in stickiness. Dust, smoke, pollen, or even certain cosmetic products can irritate the delicate eye surface. Similarly, a small foreign object like an eyelash or a speck of dirt can trigger excessive tearing and mucus production. This increased secretion can dry and become sticky around the eyelids.
When to Consult a Doctor
While sticky eyes can often be managed with home care, certain signs indicate the need for a medical evaluation. If the stickiness persists for more than a few days despite gentle cleaning, or if it worsens progressively, medical attention is advisable.
Eye pain, changes in vision like blurriness or increased sensitivity to light, or severe redness are concerning symptoms. These suggest a more serious inflammation or infection requiring immediate assessment. A feeling that something is constantly in the eye also necessitates examination to rule out a lodged foreign body or corneal abrasion.
Systemic symptoms, such as a fever accompanying sticky eyes, suggest a potential body-wide infection affecting the eyes. If an infant’s sticky eye does not improve with gentle cleaning within a day or two, or if the eye appears increasingly red or swollen, a pediatrician should be consulted.
Effective Home Care
Gentle cleaning is a primary step in managing sticky eyes at home. Using a clean, warm, damp cloth, carefully wipe away the discharge from the inner corner of the eye outwards. This action helps to loosen and remove dried secretions without causing further irritation to the delicate eyelid skin or eye surface. Repeating this process throughout the day as needed can prevent discharge from accumulating and hardening.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is also important to prevent the spread of potential infections or re-irritation. Frequent hand washing, especially before and after touching the eyes, helps minimize the transfer of bacteria or irritants. It is also important to avoid rubbing or touching the eyes excessively, as this can introduce more irritants and worsen the condition.
To further prevent contamination, avoid sharing towels, washcloths, or eye makeup with others. These items can harbor and transfer microorganisms that contribute to eye stickiness or infection. If you wear contact lenses, it is advisable to remove them temporarily and wear glasses until the stickiness resolves, as contact lenses can sometimes trap irritants or exacerbate the problem.