What are Meibomian Glands & What Do They Have To Do With Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears to keep the surface of your eyes lubricated. One of the main causes of dry eye is a problem with the meibomian glands, which are located in your eyelids. These glands are responsible for producing the oil that keeps your tears from evaporating too quickly. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at meibomian glands and how they relate to dry eye, so you can better understand your condition and find relief.
Meibomian Glands: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Meibomian glands are sebaceous glands that are located in the upper and lower eyelids. They produce an oily substance called meibum, which is an essential component of the tear film. Meibum helps to prevent tears from evaporating too quickly and ensures that your eyes stay lubricated.
These glands are controlled by a complex network of nerve impulses and hormones that regulate their production of meibum. When the glands are functioning properly, they release just the right amount of oil to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: What It Is and What Causes It?
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) occurs when the glands become clogged, inflamed, or otherwise dysfunctional. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including age, hormonal changes, certain medications, and long-term use of contact lenses. When the glands aren't working properly, they can't produce enough meibum to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly, leading to dry eye symptoms.
There are 3 classifications of meibomian gland dysfunction: mild, moderate, and severe. Symptom can range from mild itching and burning to more severe discomfort, redness, and even vision problems.
MGD can also lead to changes in meibum composition, making it more prone to bacterial growth and inflammation. This can cause further damage to the glands and worsen your dry eye symptoms over time.
Diagnosing Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Your ophthalmologist can typically diagnose MGD by examining your eyelids and looking for signs of inflammation or clogging around the meibomian glands. They may also use specialized imaging techniques, such as meibography, to get a better look at the glands and assess their function.
If you're diagnosed with MGD, your ophthalmologist may recommend a variety of treatments, including warm compresses, lid massages, and prescription eye drops or ointments. In severe cases, you may need to undergo a minimally invasive procedure called meibomian gland expression, which involves manually expressing the meibum from the glands.
Preventing Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
While some risk factors for MGD can't be avoided, such as age and certain medical conditions, there are steps you can take to promote healthy meibomian gland function and prevent dry eye.
One of the most important things you can do is maintain good eyelid hygiene. This means gently washing your eyelids daily with a mild, non-irritating cleanser, and avoiding harsh soaps or skincare products that can irritate your eyes. You should also take frequent breaks when reading or using a computer to minimize eyestrain and give your eyes a rest.
Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish and flaxseed, can also help support healthy meibomian gland function. And if you wear contact lenses, make sure to follow good contact lens hygiene practices, such as replacing them regularly and not sleeping in them.
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a common cause of dry eye, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief from your symptoms. It's important to maintain good eyelid hygiene, follow a healthy diet, and take frequent breaks when reading or using a computer to minimize your risk of developing MGD. And if you do experience dry eye symptoms, don't hesitate to see your ophthalmologist for a proper evaluation and treatment plan. If you're looking for a dry eye specialist, click here.