Meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD, is one of the most common causes of dry eye symptoms. 

The meibomian glands are located in the upper and lower eyelids and drain their oils onto the surface of the eye. The oil from the glands create the oily layer of the tear film which is combined with mucins and tears. When the oils are clogged in the glands or cannot be expressed easily, the natural tears do not have an anchor, and evaporate more quickly. See below for an example of clogged meibomian glands.

When you have MGD, it is important to start at-home and/or in-office therapy. Therapy will decrease ocular surface inflammation and dry eye symptoms, as well as set your eyes up for a healthy future to avoid the risk for possible dry eye disease in the future.