What causes sticky eyes?

A small amount of crusting after sleep can come from normal tears and mucus drying around the eyelids. Red, itchy and watery eyes may occur with Allergic Conjunctivitis, especially after exposure to dust, pollen or another trigger. Redness with thicker discharge and eyelids sticking together can occur with Conjunctivitis. One or both eyes may be affected, and a cold can sometimes accompany an infectious eye problem. Contact lens wear, eyelid inflammation, dry eyes or a foreign body can also irritate the surface. The discharge itself does not identify the cause, so avoid sharing towels and touching the eyes.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye. Gently soften crusts with clean, lukewarm water and use a fresh pad for each eye. Avoid rubbing, eye makeup and contact lenses until the eye is comfortable and a clinician has advised that lenses are suitable. Do not use someone else’s drops or old prescription medicine. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether lubricating drops or allergy treatment may help, depending on the pattern.

Seek urgent medical help for severe eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, strong light sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure, marked swelling or a cloudy-looking eye. Contact lens users should seek prompt assessment for a painful or very red eye. Arrange a review if discharge persists, keeps returning, or occurs with worsening redness or fever.

Ask whether the pattern fits an allergy, infection, dry eye or eyelid problem; whether you should pause contact lenses; and which cleansing or drops are appropriate. Mention any recent illness, new cosmetics, chemical exposure or eye injury.