Eye discharge is common when you wake up and is usually harmless. However, if your eyes have been leaking more than usual when you wake up, it may be a sign of some underlying health concerns. To understand these concerns, why they are happening, and how to deal with them, the Onlymyhealth team spoke to Dr Uma Malliah, Senior Consultant, Opthalmology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi.
What Causes Excess Eye Discharge In The Morning?
Dr Malliah said, “Excess eye discharge in the morning is commonly caused by the accumulation of tears, mucus, and debris during sleep. This can be due to various factors.” She listed:
- Allergies
- Dry eyes
- Eyelid inflammation
- Conjunctivitis also called pink eye
- Exposure to environmental irritants like dust or smoke
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications
- Underlying health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disorders
When To Be Concerned About Eye Discharge?
Dr Malliah stipulated that It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Thick, yellow or green discharge accompanied by eye pain or redness
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Fever
- If eye discharge is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by facial swelling or difficulty moving the eye
Eye Discharge A Sign Of Underlying Health Conditions?
“Treatment for persistent eye discharge depends on the underlying cause,” said Dr Malliah. Here’s how the different conditions cause excess eye discharge:
Conjunctivitis
According to the American Optometric Association, this is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane lining your eyelid and covering the white part of your eye. When inflamed, the conjunctiva can produce more mucus or pus, leading to discharge that may be clear, yellow, or green.
Blepharitis
The National Eye Institute stated that blepharitis inflames your eyelids, often affecting the oil glands at the base of your eyelashes. The irritation can cause crusting or flaking at the lash line, along with sometimes having excess discharge.
Dry Eyes
When you don't produce enough tears, your eyes can become irritated and inflamed. According to the American Academy of Opthalmology, to compensate, your body may try to produce more mucus, leading to a stringy discharge in the mornings.
Allergic Reactions
Allergies can trigger the release of histamine in your body, which can inflame the conjunctiva. This inflammation can lead to increased tear production and discharge, often watery and itchy.
Other Causes
While less common, some more serious conditions can also cause eye discharge. These include corneal ulcers (infection of the eye's surface), orbital cellulitis (infection around the eye), and endophthalmitis (infection inside the eye). Additionally, certain systemic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, or sarcoidosis can also cause eye discharge as a side effect.
Also Read: What Are The Most Prevalent Eye Disorders In India? Doctor Lists Four Eye Diseases
Preventive Excess Eye Discharge
Dr Malliah confirmed that there are several preventive measures to reduce eye discharge. She listed:
- Practicing good eyelid hygiene
- Avoiding rubbing your eyes
- Washing your hands frequently
- Using artificial tears to lubricate dry eyes
- Avoiding allergens
- Wearing sunglasses in dusty or windy environments
Dr Malliah concluded that if you notice excess eye discharge, consult a doctor immediately as it could be a sign of something sinister brewing under the surface. Maintaining good overall health and managing underlying conditions can help minimise eye discharge.