Morning eye mystery: the yucky truth you can't ignore

Understanding the Yellow Crust in Your Eyes

Ever noticed that yellow crust that accumulates in the corner of your eye when you wake up? It might seem gross, but it's actually a natural byproduct of your body's defense mechanisms. A Stanford University neuroscientist and professor of ophthalmology recently shared insights on this phenomenon through social media, revealing some surprising truths about the substance.

Dr. Andrew Huberman, who has a massive following on Instagram, explained that the gunk is essentially a collection of dead bacteria. In a popular TikTok video viewed over 1.5 million times, he described the crust as a sign that your eyes have successfully fought off bacteria during sleep. He mentioned that when you remove the crust, you're essentially clearing away the "casualties" of a battle your eyes won while you were asleep.

The video sparked a wave of reactions from viewers, many of whom expressed shock at the explanation. One user joked, "Bro, I thought I was crying in my sleep," while another said they were thrilled to learn they had been "winning in something my whole life without knowing." Others appreciated the reassurance that their eye mucus was normal, with one viewer admitting they had worried about poor eye hygiene because of the constant buildup, even after washing their eyes before bed.

However, medical experts at The Cleveland Clinic suggest that Dr. Huberman’s explanation doesn’t cover the entire story. While the discharge does contain some bacteria, it also includes mucus, tears, and old skin cells. During the day, this mixture is usually removed by blinking. At night, however, it naturally accumulates along the edge of the eyes when they are closed.

Experts emphasize that only a small amount of eye mucus is considered healthy. Excessive discharge could indicate an underlying issue such as infection, allergies, dry eyes, or other eye conditions. Abnormal discharge tends to be more noticeable than the typical "sleep" mucus found in the eyes.

Common causes of abnormal eye discharge include:

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This highly contagious condition can be caused by infections or allergies. It affects both eyes and leads to a gritty sensation, pus production, and itching.
Stye: A bacterial infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, causing a red, painful lump.
Dry Eye Disease: A condition where the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and irritation.

Conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye, occurs when the blood vessels in the membrane surrounding the eyeball become infected by bacteria or a virus, causing them to dilate. Most cases of viral conjunctivitis resolve within two to three days, though some may last for two to three weeks.

According to the NHS, the recommended treatment for conjunctivitis involves applying a hot compress. This can be done by soaking cotton pads in cooled, boiled water and gently wiping the eyelashes to remove crusts. This simple remedy helps to soothe the eyes and reduce discomfort.

Understanding what your eyes are doing while you sleep can help alleviate concerns and promote better eye health. While the yellow crust might look unappealing, it's a natural part of the body's process to fight off potential threats. However, if you notice excessive or unusual discharge, it's always wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions.