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MEIBOMIAN GLAND DYSFUCTION

Meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD, is one of the most common causes of dry eye symptoms. 

The meibomian glands are located in the upper and lower eyelids and drain their oils onto the surface of the eye. The oil from the glands create the oily layer of the tear film which is combined with mucins and tears. When the oils are clogged in the glands or cannot be expressed easily, the natural tears do not have an anchor, and evaporate more quickly. See below for an example of clogged meibomian glands.

When you have MGD, it is important to start at-home and/or in-office therapy. Therapy will decrease ocular surface inflammation and dry eye symptoms, as well as set your eyes up for a healthy future to avoid the risk for possible dry eye disease in the future. 
gland dysfunction eyelid mgd

Check the In-Office Treatment tab to learn more about Meibomian gland expression at Alamo Eye Care

meibomian gland dysfunction
Clogged meibomian glands on the lower lid margin.
clogged glands eyelids dry eye
Clogged meibomian glands on the upper lid margin.

Stages of Treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction from Dr. Melanie Frogozo's article in Contact Lens Spectrum 

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Stage 1 - Eye lid hygiene including warming and expression.
Stage 2 - Adjust humidity, increase Omega-3, artificial tears and topical antibiotics.
Stage 3 - Add oral antibiotics, lubricant ointment at bedtime.
Stage 4 - Add anti-inflammatory therapy for dry eye.

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