Along the edge of each eyelid are rows of tiny oil glands called meibomian glands. Most people have never heard of them, yet they are one of the biggest reasons eyes feel dry.
What the glands do
Each time you blink, these glands release a thin layer of oil onto your tears. That oil acts like a lid on a pot, slowing evaporation and keeping the eye's surface smooth and comfortable.
When they stop working well
With meibomian gland dysfunction, the oil thickens or the gland openings clog. Less oil reaches the tears, so they evaporate quickly. Over time, untreated glands can shrink and stop working.
Common signs of MGD
- Burning, stinging or gritty eyes
- Red or irritated lid edges
- Vision that blurs and clears as you blink
- Eyes that feel worse late in the day or after screen time
- Watery eyes, especially outdoors
Who is more likely to have it
MGD becomes more common with age, and it is also linked to screen use, contact lens wear, rosacea, hormonal changes and some medications. It is common in people who rely on artificial tears every day.
Treatment options
Care often starts with warm compresses and lid hygiene. For many patients, in-office treatment makes a bigger difference. OptiLight IPL targets inflammation that contributes to MGD and is often paired with gland expression. A dry eye evaluation at Eye See Eye and Facial Wellness shows how your glands are functioning and which plan fits.
ready for Dry Eye Treatment?
Book with Dr. Larson inside the Walmart Vision Center at 2440 W. Mason Street, Green Bay, or call (920) 405-9165.