What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian gland dysfunction affects the meibomian glands, which make meibum. This oil produces a tear film with mucus and water. If you have MGD, you often experience eye dryness, pain, and irritation. MGD can cause eye disease in some cases.
There are multiple causes of MGD. Medications that contain retinoids and estrogen may play a role, as can androgen-reducing drugs. Having rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, an inflamed cornea or eyelid, allergic conjunctivitis, and high cholesterol can also cause it, as can frequently wearing contacts.
How LipiFlow Treatment Helps with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
MGD can deteriorate your quality of life as you deal with everyday eye pain, dryness, and discomfort. That’s where LipiFlow treatment comes in. LipiFlow is a newer technology that utilizes thermal pulsation. The treatment can remove gland blockages that may impede meibum production.
Before receiving LipiFlow treatment, you should set up an appointment with your ophthalmologist for a dry eye exam. This comprehensive test will determine how red your eyes are, the lipid layer evaporation rate, and the lipid layer quality.
If your ophthalmologist diagnoses you with evaporative dry eye and determines you’re a good candidate for LipiFlow, they may administer that treatment alone or combine it with others, such as gland expression and lifestyle and diet changes.
Explore Your LipiFlow Treatment Options with Walter John Murrell, MD
Schedule a dry eye assessment with Walter John Murrell, MD, to gauge your LipiFlow candidacy. He specializes in ophthalmology services like oculoplastic surgery, dry eye, and intraocular lenses. Use the online contact form or call 303-351-1177 to book an appointment today.