In this post we will talk to you about the eye discharge, what they are, what pathologies they indicate and how to clean them to avoid infections. This secretion of the eyelid glands to maintain moisture in the eyes while we sleep can have consequences if its quantity is excessive. They may also indicate ocular infection if they are purulent in appearance.
What are eye drops?
The eye’s tear ducts are the result of an accumulation of dried tears and dead epithelial cells. They are usually common while we sleep, since, as we do not blink, small amounts of this humor remain in the eyes.
In addition, the body temperature drops a little, the lipid layer becomes more condensed and may solidify in part. This gives rise to the eyelashes that can get caught in our eyelids and eyelashes when we wake up. It is also believed that, as the smooth muscles that contract the sebaceous glands of the eyelids are more relaxed, they allow more oil secretion to accumulate in the eyelashes.
Dust mites: pathologies
Although eyelashes are very common, when more than the usual amount is secreted and they are scattered around the eyelid margin, it may be a symptom of an eye problem. If they are white or somewhat yellowish, they may indicate blepharitis, an inflammation caused by excess seborrhea or infection at the edge of the eyelids. In this case, an increased amount of tearing is seen upon awakening because of increased oil production. There will also be generalized or localized swelling of the eyelid. .
If the discharge is accompanied by constant tearing and redness of the eye, it may be viral conjunctivitis. If they are abundant and yellow or green in color, it is most likely a bacterial conjunctivitis. In both cases, the eye discharge is thicker, sticky and yellowish, especially in children.
How to clean the eye lint
The eye lint is easily removed by washing the face in the morning, rubbing the eyelids gently with clean hands and dragging them from the inside out. Never scratch your eyes when getting up without first washing your hands to avoid infection.
If eye discharge is abundant in the context of blepharitis, conjunctivitis or other ocular pathologies, ophthalmic hygiene wipes may be useful to clean them. We can also use sterile gauze impregnated with hyaluronic acid or other sterile, non-irritating and antiseptic substances that will facilitate proper eye hygiene.
Even so, if we wake up every morning with abundant eye discharge accompanied by the symptoms described above, it is advisable to request a visit to the ophthalmologist’s office.
The tear
The tear glands produce tears throughout the day to keep the eyes adequately hydrated and thus allow proper vision. They also protect the surface of the eye against external aggressions, such as those caused by airborne particles, dust, pollens, insects or even environmental dryness.