Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eye condition. Many people don't realize they have it. The cause for the problem is with tiny glands in your eyelids that help make an oily layer of your tears.
Your eyelids can become sore and swollen when the glands become blocked. Other symptoms of this condition are that your eyes become dry and then feel itchy as if there’s something in the eye. The eyes may become red, and if they’re sore, maybe watery, this can cause vision to become blurry.
How common is MGD?
MGD is highly widespread around the world. It's everywhere. At least 50% or more of the public are going to have this condition.
How do I know if I have MGD?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as your eyes become dry and then feel itchy as if there’s something in the eye then it is likely that the Meibomian gland is blocked. The eyes may become red, and if they’re sore, maybe watery, this can cause vision to become blurry.
How to treat Meibomian Glad Dysfunction?
Lid hygiene massage combined with using moist cotton tips to remove debris from your eye to help and increase blood flow to open up Meibomian glands will help the glands to unblock. Warm compresses will also unblock the glands and help melt the wax build up. One of the best ways to treat this condition is using Blephasteam.
Unlike some alternative eyelid warming devices, such as hot compresses, Blephasteam is electronically controlled to maintain a stable heat for the duration of treatment and was created to treat this exact condition.
Blephasteam is the first convenient eyelid warming device recommended to relieve symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and associated diseases such as posterior blepharitis, meibomitis, ocular rosacea, chalazion, contact lens intolerance and dry eye.
Blephasteam provides a moist and heat therapy. This dual-action unblocks the Meibomian glands, improves the tear quality, therefore improving symptoms, ocular health, vision and comfort. The easy to use googles allow to you to continue with your daily activities whilst providing must needed moisture to the eyes. The clear googles allow you to watch TV or read in the comfort of your own home.
Can Meibomian Glad Dysfunction be reversed?
What’s amazing is that once the gland is cleaned with the right treatment, glands grow back over time. Meibomian glands produce oil except if they are not functioning properly.
Are MGD and Blepharitis the same?
Blepharitis causes red, swollen and itchy eyelids. It can normally be treated by washing your eyelids every day. The condition is not usually serious, but can lead to other problems, such as dry eyes, cysts and conjunctivitis, especially if it's not treated
MGD is the most common cause of dry eye syndrome however, MGD may lead to eyelid inflammation, called Blepharitis, especially along the rims of your eyes. There's a lot of overlap among these three conditions, and you could have both all conditions at once.
Can I wear contact lenses with MGD?
Yes you can however, there are things you must do first. Although dry eye is multifactorial, research has been done that there is a strong consensus (MGD) is the most common cause of dry eye. Therefore, proactively managing and treating MGD will allow patients to continue to wear contact lenses comfortably.
Can Meibomian Glad Dysfunction be cured?
Blepharitis/MGD cannot be cured. However, most cases can be controlled with good hygiene, consisting of the frequent use of hot compresses and meticulous cleaning of the eyelid scales.