Turn up the heat: treat your eyes

The best meibomian gland dysfunction treatment is right above your eyes

When it comes to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) treatment, it is important to realise it needs be performed regularly to keep your eyes clean and healthy.

Think of it as a routine. Like brushing your teeth.

Treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction — what are your options?

Here are three methods in treating MGD properly. Ideally you will follow all three options for optimum eye health.

Eyelid warming Heating the eyelid will increase oil production and melt the “crusty” oil that has solidified in the glands. Use a warm wet washcloth to apply heat on the eyelids for a few minutes. This warms the oil, allowing it to flow more freely, and helps soften lash debris.   Our eye mask wheat bags for heating in the microwave are also a popular way to heat the glands. Eyelid massage This can be done during the eyelid warming stage or after heating with the wheat bags. Apply light pressure with your fingertips to the lid just below the eyelashes. This step is crucial as massaging your eyelids pushes the liquefied oily secretion out of the glands. Eyelid cleaning Traditionally it was recommended to use a moistened cotton bud or a warm washcloth on the tips of your fingers to gently scrub along the lash line on the top and bottom eyelids. These days we recommend Theratears Sterilid Eyelid Cleanser Foam which is very convenient and effective. Lid margin cleaning should be performed in the morning as scaling piles up during the night. Additionally, according to the experts at the Journal of Cornea and External Disease, omega-3 fatty acids improve the quality and consistency of the oil produced by the Meibomian glands. Flax seed oil and fish oil are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.  We recommend and stock Lacritec omega 3 supplements, for more information take a look here. But if you truly want to get the best possible MGD treatment, Blephasteam provides a unique moist heat option which unblocks the meibomian glands while improving your tear quality. The device is convenient, safe, and allows clear vision during use. Carry on with your reading or continue watching your programmes. The benefits of Bephasteam goggles Based on the original scientific studies of Dr. JR Fuller, this device has been developed by Laboratoires Théa, a leading ophthalmologic company. It is easy it is to use with just 10 minutes sessions and no preservatives or phosphates are used. When you use Bephasteam, you will notice:

• The unique nature of the design lets you achieve moisture beneficial to eye health.
• Your quality of blink is preserved so that meibomian oil can be released on closure and tears are re-surfaced when you blink.
• More efficiency on tear film stability and ocular health.

Scientifically proven by an independent group, Bephasteam improves tear quality, decrease tear evaporation and improve vision. You can find further research results here. Interested in trying out Bephasteam? Greenlane Penrose Optometrist carries Bephasteam and provides an option for in office treatment use. We are more than happy to introduce you to Bephasteam and a better way to improve your tear film and ocular comfort.