Skip to main content
click-2-call
arrow-down-right

All of our offices will be closed on December 24th & 25th. We will open at 10:30am on December 26th.


Home » What's New » How Dry Eye Syndrome Can Lead to Sticky Eyes in the Morning

How Dry Eye Syndrome Can Lead to Sticky Eyes in the Morning

young woman working on her laptop 640x350

Waking up with sticky eyes in the morning can be uncomfortable and frustrating. This eye condition, where your eyelids feel glued together, is often linked to dry eye syndrome.

Understanding the connection between dry eye and sticky eyes can help you find effective solutions and improve your overall eye health.

Vision Professionals offers a variety of dry eye treatments in Columbus, New Albany, Sunbury, Delaware and Jackson Township, OH.

Why Do You Wake Up with Sticky Eyes?

Sticky eyes, characterized by a crusty or sticky discharge, can make it difficult to open your eyes in the morning.

This condition can be caused by infections, allergies, blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), and even dry eyes. Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes produce insufficient or low quality tears, leading to irritation and discomfort. People with dry eyes often experience symptoms like:

  • Itching and burning sensation
  • Redness and irritation
  • Blurred vision
  • A feeling of something being in the eye

How Dry Eyes Lead to Sticky Morning Eyes

When you sleep, your eyes naturally produce fewer tears, which can worsen dry eye symptoms.

For those who wake up with dry eyes, the reduced tear production overnight can make the eyes even drier. This can cause the natural mucus in the eyes to accumulate and thicken, leading to the sticky, crusty sensation you might experience in the morning.

Additionally, the imbalance in tear composition in dry eye sufferers can also cause the mucus to become more viscous, creating a sticky film that glues the eyelids together during the night.

Managing Sticky Eyes Caused by Dry Eye Syndrome

If you frequently wake up with sticky eyes, addressing the underlying dry eye condition is essential. Here are some tips to help manage both dry eyes and sticky eyes in the morning:

  1. Use No Preservative Eye Drops: Our dry eye doctor can offer preservative-free eye drops that you use before bed. They will help maintain moisture in your eyes throughout the night, reducing dryness and stickiness in the morning.
  2. Try a Dry Eye Mask or Sleep Goggles: Using a dry eye mask, like the Bruder mask, or sleep goggles for dry eyes can help retain moisture and warmth around your eyes. This prevents them from drying out overnight.
  3. Apply Dry Eye Ointment Night Treatments: A dry eye ointment can provide long-lasting lubrication, keeping your eyes hydrated as you sleep.
  4. Consider a Dry Eye Spray: Dry eye sprays soothe and hydrate your eyes. This makes it easier to open them in the morning without discomfort.
  5. Maintain Good Eye Hygiene: Cleaning your eyelids regularly, especially before bedtime, can help reduce the buildup of mucus.
  6. Consult a Dry Eye Doctor Near Me: If you continue to wake up with dry eyes and sticky eyes, it's important to consult with one of our dry eye specialists. They can recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs, whether it's contacts for dry eyes, prescription drops, or other therapies available.

Request A Consultation at Our Dry Eye Clinic

If you’re struggling with dry eyes or sticky eyes in the morning, schedule an appointment with Vision Professionals to explore effective treatments and get the relief you need. Visit any of our dry eye clinics in Columbus, New Albany, Sunbury, Delaware and Jackson Township, OH.