Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of the tears is compromised. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of dry eye,.
Treatment options for dry eye, particularly when associated with MGD, may include:
1. Warm Compresses:
Applying warm compresses to the eyes can help liquefy the meibum (oil) in the meibomian glands, making it easier for the glands to express the oil onto the eye's surface. This can improve tear film stability. This is an at home treatment.
2. Lid Massage:
Gentle massage of the eyelids can help express the meibum from the meibomian glands, improving the quality of the tear film. Best done just after warm compresses.
3. Lid Hygiene:
Keeping the eyelids clean is crucial in managing MGD. Lid hygiene involves gently cleaning the eyelids and lashes to remove debris and unclog the meibomian glands. Often specialised lid cleaners are required. If Demodex is involved, we carefully add a treatment of tea tree oil to the outer lids in practice.
4. Artificial Tears:
Lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can provide relief by supplementing natural tears and maintaining moisture on the eye's surface. Preservative-free artificial tears are often recommended.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements:
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, flaxseed oil, and other sources, may help improve the composition of the meibum and reduce inflammation, contributing to better tear quality.
6. Prescription Medications:
In some cases, we may prescribe medications such as cyclosporine (Restasis), lifitegrast (Xiidra), or corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation.
7. Punctal Plugs:
These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage temporarily. This helps to increase the retention of natural and artificial tears on the eye's surface.
8. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy:
IPL therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses pulses of light to treat meibomian gland dysfunction and reduce inflammation. The only treatment in our armory that addresses to root problem in moderate and severe DED.
9. Gland expression:
Using titanium forceps we gently pressure to the eyelids, helping to clear blocked meibomian glands and restore normal gland function. Can be done as a stand-alone procedure, but often in conjunction with IPL.
10. Nutritional and Lifestyle Changes:
Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, avoiding environmental factors that contribute to dry eyes (such as smoke and wind), and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes of screen time) can all contribute to overall eye health.
It's important to note that the most effective treatment plan may vary from person to person, and it is following an extensive dry eye clinic examination that we formulate a personalised plan based on the specific characteristics of your dry eye condition.