Sticky eyelids, especially on waking, usually indicate increased mucus or discharge that glues the lids together. Infection, inflammation, or blocked tear drainage are frequent causes.
Likely Conditions
Bacterial conjunctivitis produces thick, yellow discharge that sticks the lids. Blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction create oily or mucous debris along the lashes, while blocked tear ducts can cause persistent stickiness and watering.
- Allergic or viral conjunctivitis tends to produce more watery stickiness
- Chronic lid crusting is a hallmark of blepharitis
- Infants with nasolacrimal obstruction often have sticky eyes without redness
- Contact lens wear can exacerbate discharge if hygiene is poor
Management
Lid hygiene with warm, damp pads, appropriate drops, and, where necessary, antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory treatment usually resolve stickiness. Persistent or one‑sided cases require assessment of tear drainage and lid margins.
- Avoid sharing towels to reduce spread of infection
- Remove crusts gently rather than picking at dried material
- Seek prompt care if sticky eyelids accompany pain or blurred vision
- Babies with persistent stickiness should be reviewed for duct obstruction
