Does waking up in the morning with some strange, sticky substance that seems to crust over your eyes sound familiar? It is generally referred to as “eye gunk” and also sometimes has crusty eyes. While unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable, it is a relatively normal physiological process. Let’s see what causes this particular eye problem and explore some home remedies to help soothe it.
What Causes Eye Gunk in the Morning?
Knowing eye gunk meaning is crucial for all people as it is one of the natural phenomena of our body but when it gets exceeded, it should be taken care of using the right approach. Eye gunk in the morning is a mixture of tears, mucus, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Your eyes constantly create mucus, oils, and tears throughout the day to keep them moist and clear of dirt and debris. Most of the fluid is sent through the tear ducts, but when sleeping, your eyes do not blink to remove the mucus. Hence, it accumulates at the corners of your eyes and forms eye gunk. It may be sticky or crusty and looks gross when you look in the mirror after waking up.
Some of the common eye gunk causes are:
- Allergies – Allergic reactions will cause overdrive on your eyes’ mucous glands to produce more mucus than usual, increasing eye discharge.
- Infections – Conditions such as conjunctivitis—in other words, pink eye—or blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid, can be associated with a high amount of discharge. It is most often accompanied by redness and irritation or itching.
- Dry Eye Syndrome – When your eyes are not creating enough tears, sometimes they overcompensate with much more mucus than usual, making your eyes sticky with gunk.
- Foreign Particles – Sometimes dust, pollen, or another irritant can spur your eyes to create more mucus for protection.
- Contact Lens Use – Wearing contact lenses may cause the eyes to produce more discharge, mainly when the lenses are not cleaned well.
Eye Gunk Treatment – Home Remedies
Though most instances of sleep crust are harmless, you can try these home remedies to relieve discomfort and lessen the amount of discharge (if you are experiencing extreme crusty eyes):
Warm Compress
A warm compress placed on your eyes can help dissolve the gunk and loosen it up, making it easier to take out. The heat encourages blood circulation and may also help soothe any discomfort that may be present. Simply soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes.
Good Hygiene
It is essential to practise good eye hygiene to minimise excessive eye discharge. Practise good hand hygiene, washing your hands often. Avoid touching your eyes with unclean hands, and clean your eyelids gently with a mild, no-tear baby shampoo or, as instructed, with a prescription eyelid cleanser.
Stay Hydrated
Dryness in the eyes increases mucus production. Hydrate your body to hydrate your eyes. Drink plenty of water during your day.
Control Allergies
If allergies are contributing to your sleep crust, manage your allergies. This may include taking antihistamines, having allergy-proof bedding, and avoiding known allergens such as pollen or pet dander.
Eye Drops
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops keep your eyes moist and decrease eye gunk. If you have dry eyes, consult your doctor to get such drops.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
It irritates them further and can exacerbate the issue of eye gunk. Instead, take a clean tissue and just lightly wipe away your discharge.
When is Eye Gunk a Cause for Concern?
If your discharge seems excessive or has an unusual texture or colour, see an eye care professional. You don’t need to be concerned, but you will know whether treatment is required or not. The abnormal discharge may result due to:
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
The conjunctiva is the membrane lining the inner eyelids and the white part of your eye. It can get inflamed, leading to a condition called pink eye or conjunctivitis, which turns the eye red or pink. The condition often includes a watery or mucus-like discharge that may be white, yellow, or green. Its causes usually consist of a bacterial or viral infection and other irritants, such as pollen.
Keratitis
Inflammation of the cornea is called keratitis. The most common causes are fungal, parasitic, or viral infections, including the herpes simplex virus. Bacterial infections can also occur, particularly with extended use of contact lenses. More severe cases can result in the formation of a corneal ulcer and the development of a substantial discharge of pus.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition in which there is inflammation of the eyelids, usually around the eyelashes. This condition may relate to skin conditions such as eczema and acne, mites, and blockage of oil glands. Symptoms include redness, swelling, itchiness on the eyelids, and foaminess or pus-like discharge. The discharge can make the eyelids glued or sticky, leaving crusts.
Stye
A stye is an infection of one of the oil glands that line the margin of the eyelid. It may form on either the inside or the outer side of the eyelid and appears as a small, painful lump with a red, yellow or white painful, pus-filled centre. Often, pus drains from the stye. It is essential to leave the stye alone because squeezing it may push bacteria and other debris deeper into the tissue, where more severe infection can develop.
Dacryocystitis
A condition of inflammation in the tear duct system, usually occurring from a blockage that traps bacteria, is called Dacryocystitis. This becomes apparent with an irritating bump inside the eyelid or a watery or gooey discharge. Newborns can also have this due to a tear duct blockage, which is congenital.
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease is an ongoing problem with the secretion of tears, leading to a lack of lubrication of the eyes. It affects the eye’s surface in most instances, usually leaving some stickiness.
Conclusion
Eye gunk in the morning is normal in most instances, and there is nothing really to be alarmed about. You can prevent discomfort by understanding its causes and following simple remedies for maintaining healthy eyes. If your sleep crust persists or other symptoms develop, especially if the eye is red, painful, or accompanied by vision issues, it’s important to consult a medical expert for further evaluation and treatment. Remember, consult with an eye care professional if you have any concerns about your eye health.
