A blocked eye gland, often referring to a blocked meibomian gland or tear duct, can be addressed through several methods. The best approach depends on the specific gland and the individual's age.
At-Home Treatments for Blocked Meibomian Glands
Many cases of blocked meibomian glands (MGD) can be managed at home. The most effective methods involve:
- Warm Compresses: Applying a warm, clean, wet washcloth to your eyelids for 4-5 minutes, two or more times a day, helps soften the hardened oil (meibum) within the glands. This makes it easier to remove during the next step.
- Gentle Massage: After applying the warm compress, gently massage the area near your eyelashes, pressing lightly to help express the softened meibum from the glands. This can be done with the compress or your fingertips.
Professional Treatments for Blocked Meibomian Glands and Tear Ducts
If home remedies aren't effective, several professional treatments exist:
- In-Office Warm Compresses and Expression: Eye care professionals use specialized machines to apply warm compresses more effectively and may also manually express the meibum from the glands.
- Punctal Dilation and Irrigation: For blocked tear ducts, particularly in adults, a doctor may dilate the puncta (tiny openings where tears drain) with a small probe and then flush the tear duct to clear the blockage. This is known as irrigation.
- Other Medical Treatments: Depending on the severity and underlying cause, additional treatments like antibiotic or steroid eye drops, artificial tears, or oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
Treating Blocked Tear Ducts in Infants
For babies with blocked tear ducts, gentle massage of the lacrimal sac (where tears drain) is often recommended. A healthcare provider can demonstrate the correct technique. Massage should be done several times daily for a few months.
Key Considerations
- Persistent Symptoms: If symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional medical advice.
- Underlying Conditions: Blocked glands can sometimes indicate an underlying condition, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids).
- Hygiene: Maintaining good eyelid hygiene, including regularly cleaning your eyelids, can help prevent future blockages.
