Difference between revisions of Dry eye
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Meibomian glands, located under the eyelids, produce the lipid tear layer. Under-stimulated meibomian glands may become clogged, no longer releasing lipids onto the surface of the eye. Meibomian gland dysfunction will cause evaporation of the lower tear layers. If meibomian gland dysfunction is left untreated, the glands may begin to atrophy. | Meibomian glands, located under the eyelids, produce the lipid tear layer. Under-stimulated meibomian glands may become clogged, no longer releasing lipids onto the surface of the eye. Meibomian gland dysfunction will cause evaporation of the lower tear layers. If meibomian gland dysfunction is left untreated, the glands may begin to atrophy. | ||
The meibomian glands are stimulated by blinking. People tend to blink less when stressed or when viewing television and computer screens, leading to under- | The meibomian glands are stimulated by blinking. People tend to blink less when stressed or when viewing television and computer screens, leading to under-stimulation of the glands. However, once the meibomian glands become clogged, stimulation may not be enough for the glands to release their product. | ||
An eye care professional may be able to help with meibomian gland dysfunction with the use of specialized tools that un-clog the glands. In addition, meibomian gland dysfunction may be treatable at home. The dry eye sufferer can use a warm compress on their eyes to loosen the contents of the meibomian glands. Then, they can pinch the eyelids (carefully, to avoid harming the eye) to express the lipids from each gland. | An eye care professional may be able to help with meibomian gland dysfunction with the use of specialized tools that un-clog the glands. In addition, meibomian gland dysfunction may be treatable at home. The dry eye sufferer can use a warm compress on their eyes to loosen the contents of the meibomian glands. Then, they can pinch the eyelids (carefully, to avoid harming the eye) to express the lipids from each gland. | ||