What Is Meibomitis?
Meibomitis, also referred to as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) or posterior blepharitis, is a chronic inflammation of the small oil-producing glands found in the eyelids. These Meibomian glands release an oily substance that forms part of the tear film, preventing tears from evaporating too quickly and keeping the eyes comfortable and lubricated.
The condition typically causes dryness, redness, blurry vision, and a persistent gritty or burning sensation in the eyes. When left untreated, Meibomitis can significantly impact eye comfort and may lead to long-term dry eye disease.
What Causes Meibomitis?
The glands affected by Meibomitis become blocked or inflamed, leading to poor-quality oil secretion. This breakdown in the tear film causes quicker tear evaporation and irritation of the ocular surface.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Allergies
- Rosacea, acne, or scalp dandruff
- Hormonal changes, especially during adolescence
- Eyelash mites or lice
- Make-up and poor eye hygiene
- Certain medications (e.g., isotretinoin)
- Contact lens solutions or extended wear
- Compromised immune function or poor diet
How Meibomitis Develops
In the early stages, inflammation causes eye irritation, especially upon waking, due to reduced tear production during sleep. Over time, the meibomian glands become scarred and less functional. Symptoms then begin to appear later in the day, as dryness and oil imbalance worsen.
Without proper care, the glands can become permanently blocked, leaving the patient with chronic dry eye symptoms that progress throughout the day.
Signs and Symptoms
While severity varies, common symptoms of Meibomitis include:
- Redness of the eye and eyelid margins
- Dryness and excessive tearing
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Itching, burning, or light sensitivity
- A gritty or foreign body sensation
- Worsened symptoms in the morning or evening
Diagnosis and Risk Factors
Meibomitis is usually diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam, where the optometrist examines the gland function, lid margins, and tear quality.
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Wear eye makeup frequently
- Have chronic skin conditions like rosacea
- Don’t regularly clean your eyelid margins
- Are exposed to allergens or irritants
- Have a compromised immune system
Treatment Options for Meibomitis
Management is focused on restoring gland function, relieving symptoms, and preventing long-term damage.
Home Therapy
- Warm compresses in the morning (10 minutes)
- Gentle lid massage to promote oil flow
- Daily eyelid scrubs using specialised cleansers
- Avoiding eye makeup during flare-ups
Professional and Medical Treatment
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) to improve oil quality
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Omega-3 supplements to restore healthy oil consistency
- Vitamin A and C to support gland function and repair
- Artificial tears to stabilise the tear film
- In-office procedures like thermal pulsation or gland expression (where available)
Long-term consistency in lid hygiene and nutrition is key to keeping symptoms under control.
Struggling with dry, red, irritated eyes that get worse in the morning or evening?
Book a consultation with Davida van der Merwe Optometris to assess for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and get personalised treatment that brings lasting relief.
