What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

Meibomian gland dysfunction is a chronic condition in which the glands in the eyelids do not produce enough oil or the oil is thick and of poor quality such that it plugs the gland. The oil is called meibum and it is one of the most important parts of the tear film. 

What is the Tear Film?

The surface of the eye is covered by the tear film which consists of three main components: 1) mucus produced by goblet cells in the conjuntiva, 2), aqueous or the water layer of the tear film produced by the lacrimal gland, and 3) meibum or oil produced by the meibomian glands. The tear film lubricates the surface of the eye, but it also protects, washes, and nourishes the surface of the eye. 

Blinking disperses the tear film across the surface of the eye. If any part of the tear film is out of balance, the film becomes unstable and does not perform its job correctly. A lack of meibum or oil causes the aqueous or water part or the tear film to evaporate too rapidly. 

What are the Symptoms of MGD?

Plugged meibomian glands or glands that produce poor quality oil can lead to the following symptoms:
 
  • Burning or Gritty Eyes
  • Watery Eyes
  • Red Eyes
  • Sore or Painful Eyes
  • Watery Eyes
  • Light Sensitivity
  • Difficult to Open in the Morning
  • Fluctuating Vision
  • Blurry Vision
  • Scurf or white flakes in the eyelashes
  • Discomfort wearing contact lenses

What are the Causes of MGD? 

The exact cause of meibomian gland dysfunction is not known. The cause is multifactorial and can vary from individual to individual. Potential causes include:

 
  • Blinking less frequently (excessive computer use)
  • Incomplete blinking
  • Aging
  • Changes in Hormone Levels (aging, pregnancy, menopause, medications, etc.)
  • Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet (fish, krill, or flaxseed oil)
  • High levels of omega-6 fatty acids in the diet (fried foods)

What can you do to treat and manage MGD?

The symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction may be improved with a daily, 3-step treatment regimen:

  1. HEAT – a heated eye mask can be applied to closed eyelids for 10-15 minuates once or twice daily. Heat will soften the oil that clogs the glands. This will allow the oil to flow from the gland with each blink. Once in the tear film, the oil will protect water part of the tear film from evaporating. We do not recommend using a wet towel to apply heat, as it cools too quickly to be effective. Heat should be followed by gentle massage of eyelid margin (near where the eyelashes are located). This will help mechanically push oil from the glands.
  2. CLEANSE – commercially available, preservative-free lid scrubs, wipes, gels, and foams have been created to remove debris, bacteria and oil from the eyelashes and eyelids. Baby shampoo used to be recommended for this purpose, but daily use can sometimes lead to irritation of the sensitive eyelid skin due to the presence of preservatives.
  3. HYDRATE – supplementing the tear film with preservative-free artificial tears can help alleviate the symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction. Artificial tears are available as liquids, gels, ointments and even misting sprays. 

Are Nutritional Supplements Helpful?

Ophthalmologists typically recommend a diet rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids and nutritional supplements to help improve the symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction. To get the best results, a high quality Omega-3 supplement should be used. It will be better absorbed, reduce the risks of side effects, and be less likely to contain environmental toxins. 

Watch a video about Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

 

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