Beyond Artificial Tears: How Our Fort Myers Eye Doctor Treats Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Artificial tears can help soothe dry, irritated eyes, but they do not always address the reason symptoms keep coming back. For many patients, chronic dry eye is connected to meibomian gland dysfunction, also known as MGD.

The meibomian glands are tiny oil glands along the eyelids. Their job is to release oil into the tear film so tears stay stable and do not evaporate too quickly. When these glands become blocked, inflamed, or sluggish, the eyes may feel dry even when they are producing enough tears. At Doctors Eyecare Centers in Fort Myers, Dr. Thomas Underhill evaluates dry eye symptoms carefully to determine whether MGD may be part of the problem.

Common Signs of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

MGD can feel different from person to person. Some patients notice burning or stinging, while others feel like something is stuck in the eye. Symptoms may come and go, but they often become more noticeable with screen use, air conditioning, wind, allergies, or long days of visual focus.

Common signs of MGD include:

•          Dry, gritty, or sandy-feeling eyes

•          Burning, stinging, or irritation

•          Redness around the eyes or eyelids

•          Watery eyes caused by tear film instability

•          Blurry vision that improves with blinking

•          Discomfort when wearing contact lenses

•          Crusting or inflammation along the eyelid margins

Because these symptoms can overlap with allergies, eye infections, or other eye conditions, a professional dry eye evaluation is important.

Why Artificial Tears Are Not Always Enough

Artificial tears can provide temporary moisture, but MGD is often related to poor oil flow from the eyelid glands. Without a healthy oil layer, tears evaporate too quickly, which can leave the surface of the eye exposed and irritated.

That is why simply adding more lubrication may not be enough for lasting relief. Effective MGD treatment focuses on improving gland function, supporting a healthier tear film, and reducing the irritation that contributes to dry eye symptoms.

How Our Fort Myers Eye Doctor Evaluates Dry Eye

During a dry eye evaluation, Dr. Underhill can assess the tear film, eyelids, and ocular surface to better understand what is causing symptoms. This may include checking how quickly tears evaporate, evaluating the eyelid margins, and looking for signs of gland blockage or inflammation.

This detailed approach helps determine whether symptoms are related to MGD, another type of dry eye, or a combination of factors. From there, treatment can be personalized instead of relying on one-size-fits-all eye drops.

Treatment Options for MGD and Dry Eye Relief

Treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction may include in-office care, at-home eyelid hygiene, warm compress guidance, prescription eye drops, or other therapies based on the severity of the condition. The goal is to help restore better oil flow, improve tear quality, and reduce ongoing irritation.

For Fort Myers patients dealing with recurring dry eye, this type of targeted care can make a meaningful difference. Addressing the glands directly may help reduce dependence on frequent artificial tears and support more comfortable vision throughout the day.

Getting to the Source of Dry Eye Symptoms

If your eyes still feel dry, irritated, or watery even after using artificial tears, MGD may be part of the issue. A comprehensive dry eye evaluation can help identify the source of your symptoms and guide the right next steps for relief.

Schedule a dry eye evaluation at Doctors Eyecare Centers to learn more about  treatment options designed to support lasting relief. Visit our office in Fort Myers, FL or call (239) 482-0355 to book an appointment today.