Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is sometimes also called Blepharitis.   It is one of the most common cause of dry eyes.

MGD refers to inflammation of the eyelids and blockage of the eyelid glands that release needed oil into the tear film on the eyes.  It leads to all of these:

  • red, flaky skin on the eyelids
  • sore, red, gritty eyes.
  • eyelids often stuck together in the morning on awakening.
  • dry eyes or excessively watery eyes.
  • fluctuating vision, that clears with blinking
 meibomian gland dysfunction
 

Each eyelid contains a row of meibomian glands.  They produce oil which is very important to proper functioning of the tears.

In meibomian gland dysfunction, the oily secretions become thick and viscous so very little is released into the tear film.

The tear film then becomes unbalanced and unable to keep the eyes properly moist. This leads to dryness, blurred vision, redness and pain.

 

Treatment of your meibomian gland dysfunction

Most people who have MGD are using lubricant eyedrops often several times during the day.  Lubricant drops give only temporary relief.  They don’t deal with the underlying problem. 
Warm compresses can give added help.  The warmth stimulates the meibomian glands to produce more oil.  Using a flannel soaked in warm water is not very effective because the flannel cools down too quickly.
A better kind of compress is one commercially made containing heat beads, that can be heated in a microwave oven.  This will retain the warmth on the eyelids for a much longer period of time. 

Much more effective is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).  This is a new technology which flashes very bright light along the meibomian glands in the lower lids.  The light and warmth generated by the light, stimulates the glands, restoring them to more normal levels of function.

IPL for dry eyes is painless, simple and effective, providing long term relief from the discomfort of dry eyes. 

E>Eye intense pulsed light therapy is currently the best treatment for MGD.  

Call today for a dry eye assessment consultation on 03 9583 0855 (Mentone) or (03) 9882 2199 (Camberwell).