"Why Do Eyelids Become Blocked and How Can I Treat It?"

Eye Health and Management

It has always been said that the eyes are the windows to the soul. During communication, people tend to focus on others' eyes, as it seems to offer a glimpse into their true selves. Sometimes, upon waking up, individuals may find their eyelids blocked, resulting in redness, swelling, and accompanying pain. So, what are the causes of eyelid blockage? And how can it be treated? It could be due to abnormal functioning of the meibomian glands. In such cases, it is advisable to apply warm compresses and perform massages. If necessary, medication may also be prescribed.

Causes of Eyelid Blockage

The primary reason for meibomian gland blockage is excessive secretions, leading to an accumulation at the gland openings. Additionally, poor functioning of the meibomian glands, such as a lack of glands or excessive oil production, can cause secretions to become cloudy and contain high lipid levels, further blocking the glands.

Treatment for Eyelid Blockage

For meibomian gland blockage caused by dysfunctional glands, the most effective treatment is meibomian gland massage. This helps to eliminate excess secretions and prevent blockage at the gland openings. After the massage, warm compresses can be applied using a warm towel or steam eye masks. This can help restore the function of the meibomian glands and normalize secretions. As the blockage improves, conditions like styes or chalazions may also be relieved.

Daily Eye Care

1. Correcting Bad Habits: In addition to proper care and dietary adjustments, it's crucial to correct unhealthy habits. Avoid using heavily pigmented eye makeup as it can be a burden on the delicate eye area. Squinting and rubbing the eyes frequently can also accelerate aging.

2. Cold Water Eye Wash: Some people prefer to use warm water to soothe dry eyes, but this is actually not advisable. While it may temporarily provide lubrication, it can lead to discomfort over time. Cold water is the best choice for eye washing, as it may feel uncomfortable initially but will eventually provide a refreshing feeling.

3. Food for Eye Health: Focus on vegetables such as spinach, rape, bok choy, and other dark green leafy vegetables, which are rich in lutein, carotenoids, and vitamin C. Purple and red vegetables like red cabbage, amaranth, and purple mustard are also good sources of anthocyanins and vitamin C. Avoid relying solely on light-colored vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions, as they may not provide sufficient nutrients.