Common causes include blepharitis, blocked eyelid oil glands, dry eyes, allergies, skin conditions, or irritation from makeup and contact lenses. Yellow or green discharge, painful bumps, and eyes that feel glued shut may suggest conjunctivitis or another infection.
A warm compress for 5–10 minutes, gentle eyelid cleaning, preservative-free artificial tears, removing makeup before sleeping, and washing bedding regularly may help. Avoid rubbing your eyes and replace old eye cosmetics or poorly cleaned contact lenses.
See an eye doctor if symptoms last longer than one or two weeks or include severe pain, swelling, thick discharge, blurred vision, light sensitivity, or repeated infections. Persistent irritation may require treatment for inflammation, infection, allergies, or gland problems.
