What causes the crust around your eyes?
Crust around the eyes, also known as sleep crust, eye discharge, or rheum, is a common occurrence that results from the accumulation of various substances during sleep. Understanding the causes of sleep crust can help you manage and prevent it effectively. Here are the primary factors that contribute to the formation of eye crust:
1. Tears: Tears are produced throughout the day to lubricate and protect the eyes. They contain a mixture of water, mucus, and lipids. During sleep, tear production decreases, allowing these components to evaporate and concentrate on the eyelids.
2. Mucus: The mucous membranes lining the eyelids produce mucus to trap foreign particles, such as dust and pollen, and help protect the eyes from infection. During sleep, the reduced blinking rate and tear production allow mucus to accumulate and mix with other substances, forming crust.
3. Oil: Meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete oil that helps stabilize the tear film and prevents evaporation. However, during sleep, oil secretion can become excessive or solidify due to decreased blinking, contributing to the formation of crust.
4. Dead skin cells: As with other areas of the body, the skin around the eyes naturally sheds dead skin cells. These cells can accumulate on the eyelids and mix with other secretions to form crust.
5. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental conditions can irritate the eyes, leading to increased mucus production and crust formation. Common irritants include dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and dry air.
6. Eye infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the eye (conjunctivitis, styes) can cause inflammation, discharge, and crusting. In such cases, the discharge may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and pain.
7. Blepharitis: This condition involves inflammation of the eyelid margins. It can cause redness, swelling, itching, and crusting around the eyelashes. Blepharitis can be caused by various factors, such as bacterial infections, allergies, and skin conditions.
8. Dry eye syndrome: A lack of adequate tear production can lead to dry eye syndrome, causing symptoms like dryness, irritation, and crusting around the eyes. Dry eye is commonly associated with certain medications, environmental factors, and age-related changes.
It's important to note that while eye crust is usually harmless and clears up on its own, excessive or persistent crusting can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition. If you experience sudden changes in the appearance or consistency of eye crust, accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.