What Are Eye Boogers?
Eye boogers, also known as eye crust or eye discharge, are a common occurrence for many people. They are the buildup of dried secretions that can be found in the corners of the eyes upon waking up in the morning. These secretions, also called rheum, are produced by the lacrimal gland, which is located above the outer corner of each eye. The purpose of the lacrimal gland is to produce tears, which help to lubricate the eyes and keep them moisturized.
Why Am I Producing So Much Eye Boogers?
Excessive eye boogers can be caused by a number of factors, including allergies, dry eyes, blepharitis, infection, or medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or blocked meibomian glands.
The appearance of eye boogers can vary depending on the individual, but they are usually clear or white in color. However, they can also be yellow or even green, which may indicate an infection or other underlying condition. Eye boogers are generally not harmful, and can be easily wiped away with a tissue or warm washcloth.
Is It Normal To Have Eye Boogers Everyday?
Having some amount of eye boogers or "sleep in the eyes" every day is considered to be normal. It is a common occurrence that happens to most people, especially in the morning when you wake up. This is due to the oils, mucus, and other debris that accumulate in the eyes during sleep, forming clumps and drying up.
However, it is important to note that having excessive or persistent eye boogers can be a sign of an underlying issue. Some of the possible causes are dry eyes, blepharitis, or blocked meibomian glands, or even other conditions like allergies, infection or medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
If you're concerned about the amount of eye boogers you're experiencing, or if you notice other symptoms such as redness, pain, or discharge, it's a good idea to consult with an eye doctor for an evaluation. They will be able to examine your eyes and rule out any underlying issues. Also, if you notice that the eye boogers are difficult to remove or have an unusual color, it is important to see an eye doctor.
Why Do We Get Eye Boogers – Causes of Eye Boogers
Eye boogers, also known as eye crust or sleep in the eyes, form when the oils, mucus, and other debris that accumulate in the eyes during sleep clump together and dry up. The process of how this happen is complex and involves several factors.
What Causes Eye Boogers
Read on to find out what causes normal eye boogers and how to know when something else could be going on.
Tear production
Our eyes produce a thin layer of tears that help to keep the eyes lubricated and flush out any dirt or debris. When we sleep, our eyes may not produce as many tears, which can cause the oils and other debris to accumulate in the corners of the eyes.
Infection
In some cases, however, eye boogers can be a sign of a more serious problem. For example, if you experience redness, swelling, or pain in the eyes, or if you have a discharge that is yellow or green in color, it could be a sign of an infection. Additionally, if you have a chronic condition such as dry eye syndrome or blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), you may be more likely to experience excessive eye boogers.
Allergies
Another potential cause of excessive eye boogers is allergies. If you have seasonal allergies or are allergic to certain substances, you may experience increased inflammation and itching in the eyes, which can lead to an overproduction of mucus. This can make it harder to remove eye boogers, and they may be more prominent in the morning. Allergic conjunctivitis (an allergic reaction on the eyes' surface) is one of the common symptoms that is caused by allergies, which can lead to excessive tearing, swollen and red eyes, and even itchy eyes.
Blinking and eye movement
As we blink and move our eyes around while we sleep, the debris can be spread around the eyelashes and eyelids.
Oily secretions
The meibomian glands in the eyelids produce an oily substance that helps to lubricate the eyes and prevent evaporation of the tears. This oil, along with the other debris and mucus that accumulate during the night, can form clumps in the eyes, which then dry and harden.
Mucus
The eyes also produce a thin film of mucus which is produced by the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This mucus can also contribute to the formation of eye boogers.
Air quality
The air quality in the environment, such as dryness and pollution, can affect the eyes' ability to produce tears and mucus, which can make the eyes more susceptible to boogers.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can also lead to excessive eye boogers. For example, people with diabetes may be more susceptible to eye infections, which can cause an overproduction of mucus. Additionally, people with thyroid disorders may experience changes in the consistency of their tears, which can make it harder to remove eye boogers.
Lack Of Hygiene
Another important thing to consider is hygiene. Not removing makeup, or not cleaning the eyes properly can lead to an accumulation of oils and debris in the eyes. It's important to remove your makeup before going to bed and to keep the area around your eyes clean.
How To Get Rid Of Eye Boogers
Eye boogers are an everyday phenomenon that happens to many of us, it's a condition that happens when our eyes produce more oil and mucus than usual, specifically when we sleep. These substances can accumulate in the corners of the eyes and create a sticky or crusty buildup, which can be disturbing and unsightly. Although it may seem as something that should cause concern, it is generally harmless and can be taken care of with some simple home remedies.
Fortunately, there are a number of remedies that can help get rid of eye boogers and prevent them from recurring. Some of the most effective methods include using warm compresses, cleaning your eyes regularly, and using eye drops. Additionally, making sure you are getting enough sleep, reducing stress and avoiding certain irritants can also be helpful in avoiding excessive production of the mucus and oils.
Warm compresses
Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected eye can help to loosen and remove any built-up debris, including eye boogers. To make a warm compress, soak a clean washcloth in warm water and wring it out. Hold the compress against the closed eye for several minutes at a time, repeating as needed.
Clean your eyelashes
Gently clean your eyelashes with a clean cotton swab or damp washcloth. This can help to remove any dirt or oils that may be contributing to the formation of eye boogers.
Blink more often
Blinking regularly can help to keep your eyes lubricated and reduce the chances of debris accumulating in the corners of your eyes.
Saline solution
Mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and use it as a nasal spray or a drop in the eyes, it can help to remove the boogers.
Coconut oil
Gently massage a small amount of coconut oil around the eyes before bed to help moisturize the area and prevent the formation of eye boogers.
Tea bags
Soak tea bags in warm water and then place them over your closed eyes for a few minutes to reduce inflammation and loosen the eye boogers.
Castor oil
Apply a small amount of castor oil around the eyes before bed to help lubricate the area and prevent the formation of eye boogers.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses protect the eyes from the sun and wind, which can dry out the eyes and contribute to the formation of eye boogers.
Remove contact lens before sleep
leaving the contact lens for the night can dry out eyes, so it's good practice to remove them before going to bed.
Aloe vera
Apply aloe vera gel around the eyes before bed to help soothe and moisturize the area.
Milk to get rid of eye boogers
Soak a cotton ball in cold milk and then place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes to help remove the eye boogers and moisturize the area.
Hydrating mist
Spray a hydrating mist or rose water around the eyes to help moisturize the area and prevent the formation of eye boogers.
Drinking water
Drinking enough water can also help to reduce the likelihood of eye boogers, since hydration is essential for healthy eyes and good tear production.
It is important to keep in mind that these remedies are mainly to help prevent the formation of eye boogers and not to treat any underlying condition that may be causing the excessive amount of boogers. If you experience excessive eye boogers or other symptoms such as redness, pain, or discharge, it's important to see an eye doctor for an evaluation.
In summary, Eye boogers are a normal occurrence that happens to most people, especially in the morning when you wake up, but in some cases, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. If you're experiencing excessive eye boogers or other symptoms such as redness, pain, or discharge, it's important to see an eye doctor for an evaluation.
To avoid excessive eye boogers, make sure to maintain good hygiene around the eyes, and remove makeup before bed. Also, note that you can clean your eyes in the morning with warm water or saline solution. Or using a clean warm cloth over your eyes before washing the face can help to reduce the amount of eye boogers and make them easier to remove.