Waking up in the morning with a small yellowish buildup at the corners of your eyes is very common. Sometimes it is so mild that it goes unnoticed, but other times it can be thicker or more abundant. Although many people simply clean it without thinking too much, this “yellow scab” can say a lot about our eye and overall health.
Understanding its origin can help us prevent further discomfort and even detect early signs of some conditions.
What is the yellow scab that appears on the eyes when you wake up?
The yellowish substance that we find in the eyes when we wake up is called rheum or ocular discharge. It is made up of a mixture of the eye’s natural skins (mucus, fat, dead cells and small particles) that accumulate while we sleep, since when the eyelids are closed, blinking (which normally cleans the eye) does not occur.
In general, a small amount is completely normal and part of the natural process of cleaning the eye. However, if the discharge is very heavy, thick, foul-smelling, very intensely colored, or accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, redness, or blurred vision, it could be a sign of any of the following conditions:
- Conjunctivitis: Infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. It can be viral, bacterial, or allergic. The bacterial one usually produces very thick and yellow lagañas.
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the edge of the eyelid, which can lead to thick discharge and crusting.
- Dry eye: In some cases, a lack of lubrication causes the eye to produce more mucus as a defense mechanism.
- Stye or chalazion: Conditions in the eyelids that can also cause discharge when sleeping.
Tips to take care of your eyes and prevent abnormal secretions
- Daily eye hygiene: Wash your eyes gently with warm water every morning and avoid touching yourself with dirty hands.
- Avoid sharing towels or makeup: Many infections are spread by contact with contaminated objects.
- Don’t wear contact lenses for too long: Taking them off before bed and keeping them clean reduces the risk of infection.
- Use artificial tears if you have dry eye: They help keep the ocular surface hydrated.
- Consult an ophthalmologist if rhea changes in appearance: Especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or sensitivity to light.
In conclusion, yellow scab on the eyes upon waking up is, in most cases, a natural response of the body. But if it becomes excessive or annoying, it may be a sign that something isn’t right. Listening to our body, even in small details like this, can help us detect health problems early and act quickly.