{"id":9118,"date":"2020-12-13T08:19:46","date_gmt":"2020-12-13T08:19:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/?page_id=9118"},"modified":"2021-07-27T10:37:32","modified_gmt":"2021-07-27T10:37:32","slug":"how-is-meibomian-gland-dysfunction-treated","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/general-practice-optometry\/guide-to-eye-conditions\/dry-eye\/eyelid-conditions\/meibomian-gland-dysfunction\/how-is-meibomian-gland-dysfunction-treated\/","title":{"rendered":"How Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Treated?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of dry eye syndrome<\/a> and blepharitis<\/a>.<\/b><\/h2>\n

Recent studies show up that to 59 percent of all adults show at least one symptom of MGD.<\/p>\n

What is meibomian gland dysfunction?<\/b><\/h3>\n

The meibomian glands are the tiny pores that line the upper and lower eyelid margins. These glands produce the oil (meibum) that contributes to your eye\u2019s tear film and provides constant lubrication to keep your eye healthy.<\/p>\n

Meibum is an essential part of your eye\u2019s tear film as it prevents your tears from evaporating too quickly.<\/p>\n

Meibomian gland dysfunction<\/a> occurs when the oil glands become blocked or clogged with thick secretions, preventing a normal flow of oil.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

As a result, the quality of the oil that flows through these glands may be poor and lead to eye irritation and a crusty discharge.<\/p>\n

Meibomian gland dysfunction often does not present with any symptoms in its early stages. However, if the condition progresses without treatment, it can cause eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) and dry eye symptoms.<\/p>\n

When MGD becomes a chronic problem, normal oil secretion becomes impossible\u2014 which can lead to permanent damage in the tear film, as well as dry eye syndrome.<\/p>\n

Common symptoms of MGD<\/b><\/h3>\n