November 30, 2020

iLux® treatment is an innovative, new, in-office treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction that helps patients overcome many of Dry Eye symptoms and enjoy improved quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about meibomian gland dysfunction and how iLux® treatment can help.
 

What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, also known as MGD, is one of the most common causes of dry eye syndrome. It is a term used to describe a condition in which the glands responsible for producing a key element of tear film become clogged.

Our tear film relies on a careful balance of oil and water. This oil is produced by tiny glands, called meibomian glands, that line the margins of the eyes. When there isn’t enough oil present in tear film, the quality of the tear film is affected, and this can make the tear film less effective at lubricating the surface of the eyes. Some of the symptoms of dry eyes caused by MGD include:

• Excessive watering, as water floods the eyes to try and counteract symptoms

• Eyes that feel sticky and dry

• Scratchiness or general irritation

• A burning sensation

• Feeling as though there is something in the eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• Red eyes

• Blurred vision

What causes meibomian gland dysfunction?

There are a range of potential causes of meibomian gland dysfunction. MGD is more likely to occur as we get older, and this is because the number of meibomian glands can decrease over time. If they stay blocked, other contributing factors include:

• Wearing contact lenses

• Being of Asian descent

• Build-up of keratin

• Suffering from allergic conjunctivitis and other eye diseases

• Having an autoimmune disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

• Taking certain medications

Your eye doctor may not be able to give you the specific cause of your MGD, but they will be able to recommend treatments for you, such as iLux®.

How does iLux® treatment work?

iLux® treatment is a very simple, non-invasive procedure. It utilizes cutting edge LED-based technology to warm the inner and outer surface of the eyelids where the meibomian glands are found. By heating the glands with LED lights and using soft, silicone eyelid pads, any clumped waxy secretions of oil are broken down so that your eye doctor can then use gentle compression to express the glands, releasing the oils.

The entire treatment can be completed in a lunchbreak and there is no downtime. Patients should start to notice an improvement in their symptoms the same day, and the results should become optimal within a few days. You will be recommended to continue to use warm compresses and to massage your eyelids daily following your iLux® treatment, as this will help to sustain the results and ensure minimal risk of further blockages forming.

If you are dealing with dry eye and would like more information about iLux® treatment, or to schedule a consultation to see if you are a candidate, please call 253-780-0700 to speak with the dry eye specialists at East Main Vision Clinic today!