Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or Disease
Meibomian gland dysfunction or disease is the leading cause of dry eye syndrome. Nearly seventy five percent of dry eye disease is caused by Meibomian gland dysfunction. The Meibomian glands are located in the upper and lower eyelids. The openings of the glands are located on the margin of the eyelids just inside of where the eyelashes are located. The Meibomian glands produce the outer lipid or oily layer of the tear film.
Layers of the Tear Film
Mucous Layer
The bottom layer of the tear film is a mucous layer which is produced by the goblet cells located in the conjunctiva.
Liquid Layer
The middle liquid or watery layer is produced by the lacrimal gland.
Lipid Layer
As noted above, this layer is produced by the Meibomian glands.
Baseline Treatment for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Retaine MGD Artificial Tears
Retaine MGD
Retaine MGD is a preservative-free emulsion that moisturizes, lubricates, and protects the eye. It is long lasting relief utilizing Novasorb, a cationic oil emulsion that effectively delivers ingredients through electrostatic attraction between positively charged droplets and the negatively charged ocular surface. The hypotonicity of the emulsion adds moisture by lowering the salt levels of the tear film while the liquid component lubricates and helps protect the liquid layer from evaporating from the eye.
Hot Compresses
Tranquileyes™
Tranquileyes uses a goggle that contains gel-like beads that retain heat once they are heated up. The beads are placed in a cup of water and placed in a microwave for 45 seconds. The beads are put back in the goggles and placed over the eyes for 10 minutes in the mornings.
Hot Compresses with a Wash Cloth
A wash cloth placed in hot water and placed over the eyes will also heat the eyelids to stimulate the Meibomian glands to secrete their oil. You will have to keep the wash cloth hot by reheating it with more hot water.
HydroEye® Supplement
HydroEye contains a variety of nutrients but the major component is gamma linolenic acid from black currant seed oil. It has been shown in several studies to have a very strong anti-inflammatory effect on the tissue on and around the eye. Inflammation is a major contributor to the development of Meibomian gland disease and dry eye disease.
Summary
These three steps can improve the symptoms of dry eyes and help with the treatment of the underlying causes of dry eyes.
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