July Dry Eye Awareness Month & Lipiflow 2022

Dry Eye Disease (DED) affects tens of millions of patients in the U.S. alone and is commonly caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a chronic, obstructive, and progressive condition of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for a healthy tear film.

1. MGD is caused by a blockage of the meibomian glands located in the eyelids. It is a chronic progressive condition and, if left untreated, may worsen over time, leaving eyes feeling more irritated, inflamed, and dry. 

2. Despite the name, DED is rarely caused by a lack of tears, but rather an insufficient lipid layer that is needed to prevent tear film from evaporating too quickly between blinks. In fact, in one study, 86% of all DED patients had MGD. MGD is also found in:

▪ 60% of contact lens wearers
▪ 89% of perimenopausal women
▪ 57% of type 1 & 70% of type 2 diabetics
▪ 80% of glaucoma patients
▪ 52% of cataract patients

It’s important to get screened for MGD, as the condition can be present even if you’re asymptomatic. And MGD-related dryness can be problematic if you wear contacts or are planning an eye surgery, such as LASIK or cataract.

Dr Silani video: https://youtu.be/FiRoUMdiZjU