Understanding Eye Gunk: Composition, Causes & What to Do

Eye discharge ("sleep," rheum) is a normal accumulation of:

• Mucus: Goblet cells (conjunctiva) — traps debris, lubricates.
• Oil (meibum): Meibomian glands (eyelids) — stabilizes tear film, prevents evaporation.
• Dead cells: Corneal/conjunctival epithelial turnover.
• Tear components: Water, electrolytes, proteins (lysozyme, lactoferrin).
• Environmental particles: Dust, pollen.

Normal vs. Abnormal

• Normal: Small amount, white/cream, crusty at medial canthus upon waking.
• Abnormal: Excessive, yellow-green (bacterial), watery (viral/allergic), stringy (allergic), bloody, accompanied by pain/redness/vision change.

Common Pathologies

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: Purulent, glued lids.
• Viral conjunctivitis: Watery, follicular.
• Allergic: Stringy, itchy.
• Blepharitis: Collarettes at lash base, frothy tears.
• Dacryocystitis: Medial canthus swelling, reflux on pressure.

When to See a Doctor

Persistent >24 hrs, vision change, pain, light sensitivity, spreading redness, newborn with discharge.

Key Takeaway

Morning eye crust is normal (mucus, oil, cells). Color, quantity, and associated symptoms distinguish benign from pathological discharge.