This Health Facts for You will go over thermal pulsation therapy as an option to treat meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
MGD is when the meibomian glands in the eye are blocked. The meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete an oil over the surface of the eye to keep your eyes moist and protected. MGD is chronic and can worsen over time if left untreated.
Symptoms
Blocked meibomian glands can cause:
Dry eyes
Burning/gritty sensation
Blurry vision
Gland dropout
What to Expect
Your eye doctor will perform a detailed eye exam. They will look at how well your meibomian glands are working.
Treatment
For patients with MGD, your eye doctor may recommend more conservative treatment. Options can include:
Warm compresses
Eyelid scrubs
Lubricating eye drops
Thermal Pulsation Therapy
Your doctor may recommend thermal pulsation therapy to treat your MGD. This is a non-invasive procedure. A close-up image of your meibomian glands is taken before the procedure. This image provides a baseline view of the glands.
The therapy takes about 12 minutes. A numbing drop will be placed in your eye(s). Then, heat and gentle pressure is used to unblock your meibomian glands.
It may take 6-8 weeks before you notice any improvements. Though results may vary, benefits from this therapy can last up to 12 months.
After Treatment
You may have irritation or inflammation of the eyes after treatment. Other side effects from thermal pulsation therapy include:
Burning
Stinging
Discharge
Redness
Foreign body sensation in the eye(s)
Itching
Sensitivity to light
Tearing
When to Call
Call if you have any questions after therapy.
Who to Call
UW Health Ophthalmology
Monday – Friday
8 00 am – 4:30 pm
(608) 263-7171
After hours, this number will give you the paging operator. Ask for the eye resident on call and leave your name and number with area code. The doctor will call you back.
The toll-free number is: 1-800-323-8942.