What Causes Meibomian Gland Blockage?

You’ve probably heard of dry eye, but what about the tiny glands that line your eyelids? They play a big role in your eye comfort. When these meibomian glands get blocked, it can lead to that gritty, dry, and irritated feeling.

So, what causes these blockages? The short answer is that a combination of factors—from age and health conditions to your daily habits—can cause the natural oils in your eyelids to thicken and block these important glands. 

What Blocked Meibomian Glands Feel Like

When the natural oils from these glands can’t reach your eye’s surface, you might notice a few things that interfere with your day. It’s often more than just a little dryness. It’s a persistent feeling that something isn’t quite right with your eyes.

Common signs include:

• A sandy or gritty feeling, like something is in your eye
• Scratchy or burning eyes
• Red or swollen eyelids
• Vision that’s blurry from one moment to the next
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes

These symptoms are characteristic of dry eye disease, which often stems from issues with the meibomian glands.

Common Reasons for Gland Blockage

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) can happen for a number of reasons. Often, it’s a mix of factors unique to you and your lifestyle. 

Age and Hormonal Shifts

As we get older, the oil our glands produce can thicken, making it harder to flow freely. Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can also affect the consistency of these important oils. Thicker oil can easily lead to a backup, preventing it from protecting your eye’s surface.

Certain Health and Skin Conditions

Some health conditions like rosacea and blepharitis—which is eyelid inflammation—are closely linked to MGD. Inflammation in other parts of your body can sometimes show up in your eyelids, too. This connection can be an important piece of the puzzle when we look for the cause of your discomfort.

Your Daily Habits and Environment

Believe it or not, things you do every day matter. Staring at screens, a primary cause of digital eye strain, often leads to incomplete or less frequent blinking, which means the glands don’t get squeezed as often. Additionally, incomplete makeup removal and even a dry home or office environment can contribute to blockages.

How to Prevent Clogged Glands at Home

You can support your eyelid health with a few simple, consistent habits. Think of it as preventative care for your eyes. A little effort can go a long way in how they feel day-to-day.

Warm Compresses and Gentle Massage

A warm compress applied to your closed eyelids for a few minutes can help loosen the oils in your glands. You can follow it with a very gentle massage along the lash line to help express the oils. Doing this consistently can make a real difference in how your eyes feel.

Proper Eyelid Hygiene

Keeping your eyelids clean is another key component of good eyelid hygiene and can remove potential blockages before they start. Use a dedicated eyelid cleanser or a gentle, tear-free soap to carefully wash away bacteria and debris. This simple habit supports the overall health of your lash line.

Professional Care for MGD

While at-home care is a great start, getting a clear diagnosis through a comprehensive eye exam is key to finding the right solution. Sometimes you need extra help, and that’s where your local eye doctor in Yorba Linda can step in. We can offer more targeted dry eye treatments based on a thorough examination of your eyes.

Therapeutic Drops and Ointments

Not all eye drops provide the same kind of relief, and some can even make things worse. We can recommend specific lubricating drops or medicated ointments for your particular needs. These are designed to reduce inflammation and improve oil flow in a way that over-the-counter options may not.

Modern In-Office Treatments

For more persistent blockages, we offer other treatments right here in our office. Technologies like Envision by InMode use gentle heat and light to clear the glands and help restore healthy function. This approach can offer significant relief from uncomfortable, long-lasting symptoms.

Long-Term Management and Relief

MGD is often a chronic condition, especially as we age, which means it’s about management rather than a one-time fix. With the right routine and support from your eye doctor, you can manage symptoms effectively. This partnership helps keep your eyes comfortable and healthy for the long run.

Consistency is an important part of a successful management plan. Sticking with your at-home care and professional treatments gives you a great opportunity to find lasting comfort. It’s about working together to find what helps you most.

Your Next Step to Comfortable Eyes

If you’re tired of that dry, gritty feeling, it might be time to see what’s happening with your meibomian glands. A thorough eye exam can help get to the root of the problem. We want to help you find the source of your discomfort so you can get back to your life.

At Dr. Bittel Optometry, our team is here to listen and create a personalized plan to get your eyes feeling great again. Schedule a visit with your eye doctor in Yorba Linda today. Let’s work together toward clear and comfortable vision.

​​​​​​​Dr. Charles F. Bittel, III