Dry Eye Disease & Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Almost every adult has experienced symptoms of dry eyes. However, not everyone experiences discomfort. Symptoms include burning, stinging, watery eyes, and blurry vision (that improves with blinking).
Our vision and eye health is dependent on our tear film which is comprised of a mucin layer, a water layer, and an oil layer. Some of us do not make enough aqueous tears for the water layer and many of us do not make enough lipid tears for the oil layer of the tear film which results in dry eye disease. Factors that cause the progression of dry eye disease include computer/digital device use, diet, age, contact lens wear, eyelid hygiene, and many others.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) refers to the decreased function of the glands in our eyelids that secrete the oil layer of our tears. The pores/openings of the glands are right behind the eyelashes, so each time we blink and touch our eyelids together, the force of the touch squeezes oil from the glands. Since oil floats on top of water, it acts as a protective layer that prevents the water beneath from evaporating too quickly.
Many factors can contribute to the decrease of meibomian gland function including blinking, aging, and omega-3. When the protective oil layer is missing from our tears, the water layer evaporates causing the many signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.
Nordic Island Nutrition Dietary Omega-3s Fish Oil
Increasing omega-3 intake has been shown to have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and to improve dry eye symptoms. The only effective form of Omega-3 is the triglyceride form at a dosage of 2,000mg with EPA + DHA (the active ingredients) per day.
Optase hot compress mask
Reusable and designed to give you effective relief from symptoms related to dry eye and other conditions. The Moist Heat Mask features HydroBead technology, which absorbs moisture from the air and releases a natural, constant moist heat
Optase tea tree oil gel
A gentle and preservative free cleanser for daily eyelid and eyelash hygiene. A 3 in 1 formula that cleanses, moisturizes and soothes eyelids.
Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops
An eye lubricant that provides relief and protection from moderate to severe dry eye symptoms. Optase drops are preservative free and provide the protection and hydration your eyes require to reduce symptoms of Dry Eye.
