Understanding Dry Eye, Blepharitis & MGD

Dry, gritty, or burning eyes?

You're definitely not alone. Dry eye is one of the most frequent issues people face when it comes to eye discomfort. In many cases, the root of the problem isn't just tear quantity, but tear quality — your eyes may not be producing the right kind of tears to keep them properly lubricated and comfortable.

When you have dry eyes, it is common to feel like there is something in your eye. Other symptoms include burning, stinging, redness, and intermittent blurry vision and excess tearing.

The Connection Between Dry Eye, Blepharitis & MGD

Healthy Tears

Your tears aren’t just made of water — they’re made up of layers, including a thin top layer of oil made by tiny glands in your eyelids. This oily layer helps keep your tears from drying up too fast, so your eyes stay moist, comfortable, and protected.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): The tiny oil glands in your eyelids are called Meibomian glands. When these oil glands become blocked or inflamed, the oil layer in the tears aren't there any more so your tears evaporate quickly —leaving eyes dry and uncomfortable.

  
  

• Blepharitis: Blepharitis is a common condition where bacteria or tiny flakes of skin build up around your eyelashes, making the eyes feel gritty or uncomfortable. The bacteria build up hardens the oil produced by your oil glands contributing to blockages, irritation or small bumps like styes.

  
  
  
  

  

  The differences between healthy normal eye and an eye with meibomian gland dysfunction and blepharitis. © Copyright The Oculists 2025

  
  

Home Management Tips

While professional treatment is often needed for lasting relief, there are 3 simple steps you can do at home to help:

1. Warm compresses: Apply a clean, warm cloth or a heated eye mask (we love the Aelo and Lula masks) for 10–15 minutes daily. This helps soften the buildup around the eyelids and unblock the oil glands.

   
   

2. Eyelid hygiene: After a warm compress, clean along the lash line with a specially formulated Tea Tree Eyelid Foam Wash. This removes debris and actively reduces bacteria buildup.

   
   

3. Lubricating eye drops: Using preservative-free eye drops can give further relief by adding moisture back to the eye surface.

   
   

Other changes to think about:

• Blink breaks: Screens make us blink less! Follow the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds—and give your eyes a full, slow blink.

  
  

• Stay hydrated & balanced: Drink plenty of water and include omega-3–rich foods (like fish, flaxseed, and walnuts) to support a healthier tear film. If it is a struggle to get enough through diet alone, supplements may help.

  
  

When to Seek Help

If dryness, burning, or irritation is persistent, it’s time to get a professional eye exam. We can assess your glands and tear quality, then tailor a management plan that works best for you.

Don’t put up with ongoing discomfort—relief is possible. Book your dry eye consultation with our friendly team today.