Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is an eye condition that affects many Americans. MGD occurs when the meibomian glands in your eyelids either become blocked or can’t produce as much oil as your eyes need to stay moisturized and nourished. If left untreated, MGD can significantly contribute to dry eye symptoms.
MGD tends to be chronic and progressive, and if left untreated, usually the condition will get worse. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to relieve MGD symptoms. If you think you have MGD, you can consult your optometrist or local eye care professional to learn about your options.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is a condition that affects the oil-producing glands in your eyelids, which are called the meibomian glands. The oils produced by the meibomian glands are mixed in with tears created in the tear ducts of the eyes. These oils prevent tears from drying out too quickly and protect the eye from dust and particles in the air.
MGD causes these glands to either become blocked by hardened oils or causes the glands not to produce enough oils. This lack of oil can lead to tears evaporating too quickly from the eye’s surface, eventually leading to dry eyes.
What Causes Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
MGD is caused by several different factors including:
- Excessive screen time (phone/tablet/computer)
- Hormonal changes (especially in people over the age of 50
- Certain medications
- Nutritional factors
- Chronic eye conditions like blepharitis and eye allergies
- Wearing contact lenses
Symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
The symptoms of MGD can be similar to dry eye symptoms. Common MGD symptoms include:
- Dry eyes
- Itching and burning eyes
- Red and irritated eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Swollen eyelids
- Gritty-feeling eyelids or feeling like something is stuck in the eye
- Crusty eyelids
How Long Does Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Last?
MGD can last for a short period of a few weeks to years. The length of MGD depends on whether it is acute MGD or chronic MGD. Acute MGD is often caused by a specific event or trigger. This can include infections or the use of a new medication. Acute MGD can be resolved within a few weeks with proper treatment.
Chronic MGD is a long-term condition that requires ongoing management. The symptoms of chronic MGD may fluctuate in severity, but the underlying condition persists over time.
The severity of MGD symptoms depends on the underlying causes of MGD, the effectiveness of the treatments used to treat the MGD, and lifestyle factors such as screen time and air quality.
Treatment Options for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
- Warm compresses: Soften the meibum and improve gland function.
- Lid hygiene: Remove debris and bacteria from the eyelids.
- Artificial tears: Lubricate the eyes and relieve dryness.
- Prescription medications: Reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.
- In-office procedures: Such as IPL therapy, thermal treatments paired with meibomian gland expression.
Managing Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Long-Term
Chronic MGD requires a long-term management strategy to avoid flare-ups and worsening symptoms. The most important step in managing MGD is scheduling regular eye exams and updating your optometrist about the progression of your symptoms. Your optometrist will be able to help you build an effective treatment plan that is custom to your eye health needs.
Once you have a treatment plan, keeping up with your treatments is important. Failing to be consistent with prescribed treatments can lead to slower healing and persistent MGD symptoms. This includes not making recommended lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier and reducing screen time.
In addition to in-office treatments, your optometrist may prescribe you eye drops or prescription medications that can be used to manage MGD symptoms and oil blockages in the meibomian glands.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Treatments
In-office MGD treatments typically focus on decreasing inflammation as well as loosening up blockages in the meibomian glands and stimulating oil production. At Eyes On Westlake, we offer multiple treatments that can help alleviate MGD symptoms and meibomian gland blockages.
OptiLight Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL) is the first FDA-approved for MGD management. IPL works by reducing inflammation in the eyelids that leads to MGD. IPL is non-invasive and only takes 15-20 minutes per session, meaning sessions are quick and easy.
OptiPLUS Radiofrequency (RF) is an FDA-cleared treatment for MGD. This RF technology can warm the eyelids, increasing circulation to the eyelids and softening the hardened oils for the meibomian glands followed by gland expression.
Zest Blepharoexfolation Treatment is an eyelid cleaning treatment done in the office. By cleaning the inside of the eyelids, debris that may be irritating and creating blockages in the meibomian glands can be cleared, leading to MGD relief.
The Link Between Meibomian Gland Dysfunction & Dry Eye
MGD leaves your eyes vulnerable to dry eye. Some research has shown that as many as 93% of people with dry eye also have MGD. Dry eye can lead to significant eye irritation and discomfort. By treating MGD early, you can avoid additional dry eye symptoms, and get your eye health sooner!
Conclusion
While MGD can be a persistent condition, effective management strategies can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. It’s important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
At Eyes on Westlake, we want to help you live free from MGD and dry eye symptoms. Book an appointment with us today to learn more about your treatment options.
