Waking up with eye crust, also known as rheum, is a common experience. This eye discharge is a normal byproduct of your eyes’ natural self-cleaning process. While often harmless, understanding why it forms can help identify when it might signal an underlying issue.
The Natural Process of Eye Crust Formation
Your eyes are constantly working to maintain their health and clarity, even during sleep. Throughout the day, blinking helps to distribute tears and flush away any foreign particles, old cells, and excess mucus. Tears are a complex mixture of watery components, proteins, and an oily layer produced by meibomian glands in your eyelids.
This tear film, along with mucus produced by the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white of your eye and inner eyelid), works to lubricate the eye and trap debris. When you sleep, you are not blinking, which allows these substances—tears, mucus, oil, and dead skin cells—to accumulate in the corners of your eyes and along the lash line. As the liquid portion of this mixture evaporates overnight, the remaining solids dry out, forming the crusty or sticky residue you find in the morning.
When Eye Crust Signals an Issue
While some eye crust is normal, certain characteristics can indicate a health problem. Color and consistency of the discharge are important indicators. Normal eye crust is white or cream colored. However, if the discharge is yellow, green, or thick and sticky, it may suggest an infection.
Accompanying symptoms help differentiate normal crust from a potential issue. If you experience redness, pain, swelling, itching, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light along with eye discharge, it warrants attention.
Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause a white, yellow, or green discharge, often accompanied by red, itchy, or gritty-feeling eyes. Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, can lead to crusty eyelids and lashes, with redness, itching, and a gritty sensation. Dry eye syndrome can also result in crusty or stringy mucus. Allergic reactions can also increase eye discharge, often accompanied by itching and watering. A blocked tear duct can also cause the accumulation of yellow or white mucus.
Maintaining Eye Hygiene and When to Seek Care
Managing normal eye crust involves simple hygiene practices. Gently remove the crust using a clean washcloth dampened with warm water. Applying the warm compress to your closed eyelids for a few minutes can help soften the crust, making it easier to wipe away. It is important to avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously, as this can irritate them and potentially introduce bacteria. Always wash your hands before and after touching your eyes to prevent the spread of germs.
Seek professional medical attention if you notice concerning changes in your eye crust. This includes persistent unusual discharge, especially if it is green or yellow. Other signs warranting a visit to an eye doctor or general practitioner include significant eye pain, increased redness or irritation, eyelid swelling, blurred vision, or heightened light sensitivity. If your eyelids are sticking together due to excessive discharge, or if home remedies do not provide relief, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.