Recommended MGD care that patients can perform at home

MGD care that patients can perform at home will be described here. This care complements treatment at a hospital.
Feel free to use this webpage for patient explanations.

MGD care that can be performed at home

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a condition whereby glands in the eyelids that produce lipids become clogged for some reason. This leads to dry eye symptoms and eye discomfort. In addition to eyedrops, ointment, or oral medication prescribed at a hospital, MGD can be effectively treated by performing eyelid care at home. Thus, eyelid care should become part of a patient’s daily routine.

Eyelid care can also help to prevent MGD in patients who do not have ocular symptoms.
Patients should maintain their ocular health.

Warm compress

A warm compress is a form of at-home care that has long been considered a standard treatment for MGD around the world. A warm compress is intended to dissolve meibomian lipids and improve bloodflow in the eyelids. The compress needs to be left on the eyelids for a given period so that the temperature of the eyelids rises and the temperature around the meibomian glands rises somewhat.

In fact, patients who have applied a warm compress have remarked that “It feels good,’’ “My eyes are relieved,” and “It’s easier for me to open my eyes.”

Applying a warm compress for 5 minutes a day, once in the morning and once at night, will bring faster relief. Once the eyelids are warm, gently massage the eyelids with the fingers. Performing lid hygiene will result in an even greater benefit. If patients with allergic conjunctivitis (like hay fever conjunctivitis) apply warmth to their eyelids, the white of the eye can redden and the eyes can become itchy (ocular pruritus). In such an event, consult your primary physician.

Lid hygiene

Lid hygiene is intended to clear the meibomian glands of lipids, to remove solidified lipids and keratotic plugs, and to reduce the amount of bacteria around the meibomian glands. Lid hygiene can be accomplished by gently massaging the area around the base of the eyelashes with a finger.

Lid hygiene is more effective when combined with application of a warm compress. Be sure to clean around your eyelids every day, much like washing your face or brushing your teeth.