The
primary function of meibomian glands is to secret lipids, the
thickening agent for tears. In chronic dry eye syndrome, meibomian
glands play an important part of dry eye relief. the inability to
thicken tears lead to evaporative dry eyes. Blepharitis (eye lid
abnormalities and infections), Rosacea often concur with Meibomian Gland
Dysfunction (MGD) making it one of the most difficult dry eye
conditions to treat. Assessment and treatment of meibomian gland
disease is often a necessary step in successful dry eye treatment.
How to look for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Normal
meibum is thin with clear liquid which is expressed very easily. With
various stages of MGD, the meibum becomes thicker, (see photo above) and
the expressed liquid becomes thicker, granular and some time in clumps
and the liquid become opague. The expressing meibum can be very
difficult.
Often MGD is accompanied by lots of inflammation - on
the eye lid, in the eye. In most cases, MGD is accompanied also by tear
volume in-sufficiencies (Lacrimal Gland). Thus setting up a situation
where dry eyes cause inflammation and the inflammation causes the tear
secretion glands to shut down.
Certain drugs can cause MGD, especially drugs to dry up acne - such as Accutane, antihistamines used in allergy treatments.
Treatment of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Typical treatments for MGD includes:
1. Wet hot compresses - twice a day, each time 10 minutes to unclog the meibomian glands
2. Eye lids cleaning daily to minimize eye infections
3. Oral Antibiotcis - Doxycycline or Azithromycin daily
4. Steroid eye drops - such as Lotamax or PredForte to calm down
inflammation during a flare. Steroid eye drops are limited to one month
since long term use may result in kidney and liver damages.
How can TheraLife help?
TheraLife Eye is formulated to revitalize all the tear secretion
glands, including meibomian glands, lacrimal glands to get sustainable
long lasting relief. TheraLife Eye is used along with the procedures
described above for speedy recovery and long term maintenance.
To learn more
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photo curtesy of Gary N. Foulks MD, FACS.