If you frequently experience burning or watering eyes, the cause might be from the tiny glands lining your eyelids called meibomian glands. When these glands get clogged, they can’t release the oils your eyes need to feel healthy and comfortable. The good news is that there are effective ways to help unclog them.
You can help unclog your meibomian glands through a combination of consistent at-home care and professional treatments designed to restore proper oil flow. These steps can help manage discomfort and support your long-term eye health, which is a key goal of eye disease diagnosis and management.
What a Blocked Meibomian Gland Looks and Feels Like
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) happens when the oil glands lining your eyelids become blocked. This blockage prevents the natural flow of oils that protect the surface of your eye. Without this oily layer, your tears can evaporate too quickly, which can cause discomfort.
Common Symptoms You Might Notice
- Eyes that burn or feel scratchy
- Redness or soreness
- Swollen eyelids
- Watery eyes
- A feeling like something is in your eye
- Blurry vision that comes and goes
- Sticky or crusty eyelids, especially in the morning
- Eye styes that keep coming back
Simple At-Home Care for Your Eyelids
You can often manage symptoms with a consistent daily routine. These simple techniques can help soften the hardened oil and encourage the glands to function properly again.
Use a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to your eyelids helps melt the thick oil blocking the glands. Place a clean, warm, dry washcloth over your closed eyes for around 15-20 minutes. You can do this 2 times a day, especially when symptoms feel more noticeable.
Try Gentle Eyelid Massage
Right after using a warm compress, you can gently massage your eyelids to help push the oils out. Use your fingertip to apply light pressure and roll it upward on the lower lid while looking up. Then, roll your finger downward on the upper lid while looking down.
Keep Your Eyelids Clean
Washing your eyelids helps remove oil, bacteria, and skin cells that can block the gland openings. Use a cotton swab or your clean fingertip with a gentle cleanser. Gently wipe along your lash line to help keep the oil flowing.
A Gentle Approach Is Key
It’s important to be gentle when you massage your eyelids. Squeezing or applying too much pressure can cause more irritation and may even damage the delicate eyelid tissue. A light touch is all that’s needed to encourage the oil to flow naturally. This is important, as untreated dry eye can lead to other issues.
What Causes Blocked Glands and Who Is at Risk
Several factors can contribute to meibomian glands becoming blocked. Sometimes it’s related to the quality of the oil itself. Other times, outside factors and personal health can play a role.
Common Causes of Blocked Glands
The primary cause of blockages is oil that thickens and can’t flow freely. Certain medications, hormonal changes, and even allergies can contribute to this problem. If left unaddressed for a long time, the glands may gradually stop working correctly.
Factors That May Increase Your Risk
- Getting older
- Wearing contact lenses
- Having certain immune system conditions
- A tendency toward allergic reactions
Professional Treatments From Your Eye Doctor
If at-home treatments aren’t providing enough relief, professional dry eye therapy can make a difference. Your eye doctor can offer different options to help clear your glands and manage your symptoms effectively. We can assess your specific situation and recommend a path forward.
In-Office Dry Eye Treatments
We use innovative technology, like TempSure Envi, which uses radiofrequency energy to gently heat the eyelids. This process helps melt away blockages in the oil glands and improves gland function. In addition to relieving blockages, radiofrequency stimulates collagen regeneration in the eyelids, helping strengthen the muscles involved in blinking to support healthier tear production and better tear distribution. After the heating treatment, your eye doctor can gently express the trapped oil from the glands to further relieve dry eye symptoms.
We also offer dry eye treatments such as TearCare, which works by delivering targeted thermal energy directly to the eyelids. Unlike traditional warm compresses, TearCare uses smart, wearable technology that allows you to blink naturally during treatment while consistent heat helps soften and mobilize hardened oils within the glands.
Prescription Drops and Ointments
As part of your treatment, an optometrist may recommend prescription eye drops such as Restasis® or Xiidra®, which help improve tear production by increasing lacrimal gland function and reducing ocular surface inflammation. In addition, non-prescription products such as Optase® or OCuSOFT® may be recommended as supportive therapies for eyelid hygiene and surface comfort.
The Importance of Clear Meibomian Glands
Keeping your meibomian glands clear is about more than just comfort. These tiny glands are foundational to your overall eye health. Healthy function can help prevent other issues from developing down the road.
Prevent Dry Eye Symptoms
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a leading cause of dry eye syndrome. When your glands produce a healthy amount of quality oil, it creates a stable tear film. This tear film is what keeps your eyes hydrated, protected, and comfortable throughout the day.
Avoid Eyelid Irritation and Inflammation
Properly functioning glands help prevent eyelid inflammation, also known as blepharitis. Keeping them clear reduces the risk of developing painful styes or chalazions (small cysts).
Managing Your Meibomian Glands Together
Taking care of your meibomian glands is an important part of any eye care routine. If at-home care isn’t enough, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Eye Lab to discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options.
