Discover Eyecare
Blog Hero

How to Unclog Meibomian Glands

Book Appointment
A youthful lady is gently swabbing her eyelids with a cotton swab while standing before a mirror.

Do you or someone you know suffer from dry eye syndrome? If so, the first thing to understand is that it can be caused by a variety of factors, one of which might be clogged meibomian glands. 

These small sebaceous glands at the rim of your eyelids produce and secrete oils to coat your eyes and keep them lubricated. When they get blocked or become inflamed, they cannot do their job properly, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like dryness and irritation

Fortunately, there are actions you can take to help unclog your meibomian glands and improve your eye health. 

These include: 

  • Using warm compresses
  • Cleansing the eyes daily with a mild cleaner
  • Changing your diet
  • Increasing water intake
  • Removing makeup
  • Trying alternative treatments like IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy, and radio frequency. 

Understand the Causes of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction & Treatment

Meibomian gland blockage is a common condition that affects many people, but few understand the root causes behind it. One of the main reasons for the blockage is the buildup of oil and debris in the tiny glands located near the eyelids. 

This can occur due to poor hygiene or as a result of certain medical conditions that cause inflammation such as rosacea or blepharitis. In addition, age and hormonal changes can also play a role in the development of this condition. 

One way to prevent blockages is to maintain good eye hygiene by regularly cleaning your eyelids and avoiding wearing eye makeup for too long. However, if you are experiencing persisting symptoms such as redness or eye irritation, it’s important to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.

Use Warm Compresses & Properly Cleanse Eyelids to Help Unclog Glands

Suffering from uncomfortable and unsightly eyelid bumps? It’s important to know that there are simple ways to treat them at home. Warm compresses are one such method. Simply soak a washcloth in warm water and apply it to your closed eyelids for several minutes, several times a day. This method helps to unclog the tiny oil glands and soothe any inflammation. 

It’s also crucial to properly clean your eyelids daily to remove any debris or bacteria that contribute to clogged glands. A gentle cleanser or eyelid scrub designed specifically for the delicate skin around your eyes should do the trick. With a little bit of effort, you can take the necessary steps to keep your eyes healthy and bump-free.

A close-up view of a humidifier in operation within a bedroom increases the moisture in the air as the individual sleeps.

Use a Humidifier in Your Bedroom & Eyelid Scrubs

When it comes to dealing with clogged meibomian glands, there are a few things you can do to find relief. One effective option is to invest in a humidifier. This device increases the moisture levels in the air, which can help to prevent your meibomian glands from becoming clogged.  

Another option is to use an eyelid scrub that contains ingredients like tea tree oil or hyaluronan, which can help to soften the skin around your eyes and soothe any inflammation. Keeping your meibomian glands clear is critical for maintaining healthy eyes, so it’s important to be proactive about it.

Consider Dietary Changes for Relief from Obstructed Meibomian Glands

Meibomian glands play a crucial role in keeping our eyes lubricated and healthy. However, sometimes, they can become clogged with oil and bacteria. Instead of relying solely on eyedrops or other temporary fixes, consider making dietary changes to address the root cause of the issue. 

Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, can help improve the quality of your tears and reduce inflammation in the eyes. 

Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding foods with excessive amounts of sugar can also support overall eye health. By making these simple changes, you may be able to find long-term relief from obstructed Meibomian glands and improve your overall eye health.

Explore Alternate Treatments for Clogged Meibomian Glands

If you suffer from dry eyes, you know how frustrating it can be to find relief. While traditional treatments like eye drops and warm compresses are effective for some, others may benefit from exploring alternate treatments such as BlephEx, pulsed light therapy, and massage therapy.

Radio Frequency

Radio frequency is a technology used that generates heat through your eyelid tissue, being more effective at reaching temperatures that allow for liquefaction of the thick oil in our glands. This helps to produce proper oil flow for the tears.

Pulsed Light Therapy for Meibomian Gland Expression

Pulsed light therapy involves using light waves to heat and liquefy the oil in your glands, making it easier to express. This procedure can provide fast, long-lasting relief from dry eyes.

When to See an Eye Care Provider

By employing these strategies as outlined above, you will better understand how to improve your eye health over time while possibly reducing symptoms related to clogged meibomian glands in the process. 

If you believe you have blocked meibomian glands or are experiencing distress from this condition, then do not hesitate to contact Discover Eyecare for solutions that will help unclog your meibomian glands, thereby reducing any discomfort associated with meibomian gland blockage. Book an appointment today!

Written by Dr. Jonathan Laudadio

Jonathan was born and raised in Quebec. He moved to Abbotsford, BC, where he attended high school before moving on to UBC for his undergrad. Jonathan completed his Doctorate of Optometry at the Université de Montréal in 2004 with some training at the Portland VA Medical Centre. He has been in private practice since graduating and has worked six years in a laser surgery/ophthalmology clinic. He is a very proud father of 2 girls, plays sports, loves his Montreal Canadiens, and baseball.
instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax