STICKY EYES
SYMPTOM GUIDE
Sticky eyes can look like a build-up of dried discharge such as mucus, oils and skin cells. This can appear on the eyelids and lashes, leading to sticky residue. In some cases it can be different colours, which might indicate infection. Anyone can get sticky eyes, from newborns to adults.
COMMON CAUSES OF STICKY EYES
There are different reasons why you might notice sticky eyes, such as bacterial infection, illnesses such as flu and some eye conditions.
CONJUNCTIVITIS
In some cases, sticky eyes can be due to the eye condition conjunctivitis. This is usually caused by infection or allergies, and typically gets better on its own. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually produces a white yellow discharge along with an irritated sensation and possible swelling sensation of the eyelids. If you have had a recent cold or flu you might also experience watery discharge from the eyes. This is usually caused by viral conjunctivitis. In some instances it might be necessary to seek the advice of your pharmacist or eye care professional.
BLEPHARITIS
Blepharitis can cause the eyelid to become inflamed, which could result in sticky eyes if there is bacteria present or the glands become clogged.
DRY EYE
A lack of tears from dry eyes could lead to sticky eyes, due the eye being unable to drain any oil or build-up from the eye’s surface. If you have dry eyes you may also experience a build up of mucus which can also cause sticky eyes.
STYES
Styes are a common eye infection that impact the eyelids. The bacteria causing the stye could result in a blockage in the eyelid’s oil-producing gland, which could lead to sticky eyes.
OTHER RELATED CAUSES OF STICKY EYES
OBJECT IN THE EYE
Foreign objects in the eye such as sand, dirt or dust could lead to irritation. In some cases, this can then result in experiencing sticky eyes.
BLOCKED TEAR DUCT
When the tear ducts become blocked they are unable to drain in the usual way, resulting in a build-up of tears and mucus. This can lead to irritated eyes that can become sticky.
CONTAMINATED CONTACT LENSES
Contaminated contact lenses that are applied straight to the eye surface could cause sticky eyes, if there is a build-up of dirt or bacteria. It’s important to follow careful hygiene.
What to do if you have sticky eyes
If you experience new eye symptoms such as sticky eyes, you should seek the advice of an optometrist or a pharmacist. A check-up can help to find any underlying causes of sticky eyes, particularly if you experience other symptoms such as pain or change in vision. It’s important to follow advice from a eye care professional, whether it is lifestyle adjustments or treating symptoms.
To help relieve symptoms of sticky eyes, ensure you are following proper hygiene. You can gently wipe the area to remove any debris or residue with an appropriate product, such as Blephaclean PF. This is suitable for all ages from 3 months old, and can help to clean the eyelids and surrounding areas.
Explore other eye symptoms
Find out more about other eye symptoms below, or visit the Eye Symptom Checker to find out more information.
RED EYESWATERY EYESBLURRED VISIONSWOLLEN EYELIDS
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