MGD Relief in the Heart of Norfolk

Your eyes deal with a lot here in Norfolk—salty bay breezes, humid summers, and dry indoor heat in winter. If you’re struggling with tired, gritty, or irritated eyes, there’s a good chance Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is to blame. At Envision Ghent Optometry, we are skilled in diagnosing and treating this root cause of chronic dry eye, so you can get back to comfortable, clear vision again.

What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

MGD occurs when the tiny oil glands along your eyelid margins become clogged or inflamed. These glands are responsible for producing the protective oil layer in your tear film, the part that keeps your tears from evaporating too quickly. When they stop working properly, your eyes become dry, irritated, and prone to inflammation.

MGD is one of the most common causes of dry eye syndrome, especially in adults over 40 and those who spend a lot of time looking at screens.

Why MGD Is So Common in Norfolk

Living near the coast means your eyes are constantly exposed to moisture shifts, allergens, and salty air that can irritate the eyes and disrupt tear stability. Add in our hot, humid summers, long pollen seasons, and the everyday stress of digital devices, and it’s no wonder so many residents experience chronic dry eye.

MGD tends to worsen in environments where:

• Air quality fluctuates (humidity and HVAC systems)
• Screen use is high (office life and Zoom fatigue)
• Pollen, dust, and dander are common

In Norfolk’s climate, MGD isn’t just a seasonal issue; it can become a year-round problem.

Symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

You may have MGD if you experience:

• A gritty, sandy, or burning sensation in your eyes
• Redness or inflammation along the eyelids
• Blurry vision that improves with blinking
• Excessive tearing (yes, watery eyes can mean dry eye!)
• Sensitivity to wind or light
• Discomfort during or after screen time
• Crusting around the eyelids, especially in the morning

How We Diagnose MGD at Envision Ghent Optometry

Our eye doctor, Dr. Nathalie Cassis, takes a personalized, detail-oriented approach to dry eye care. She uses advanced tools to evaluate your tear film quality and examine your meibomian glands under magnification. Depending on your symptoms, she may use advanced imaging to assess how well your oil glands are functioning.

This thorough, non-invasive exam helps us pinpoint whether MGD is contributing to your dry eye symptoms and how to treat it effectively.

Treating MGD in Norfolk

Once we identify the cause of your symptoms, we’ll walk you through a customized treatment plan. Depending on your case, this may include:

• LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation: A gentle, in-office procedure that uses heat and massage to unclog blocked oil glands and restore healthy function.
• Lumenis® IPL Therapy: Intense Pulsed Light can reduce inflammation around the eyes and improve gland function, especially for patients with rosacea or visible blood vessels.
• Prescription Eye Drops: To reduce inflammation and support tear production.
• Lid Hygiene Products: We may recommend medicated wipes, foams, or at-home routines to keep the eyelid area clean and reduce bacterial buildup.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Including screen time habits, warm compresses, and hydration tips tailored to your routine.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care—your treatment is as individualized as your symptoms.

What to Expect From Treatment

Most patients start feeling relief within a few weeks, with continued improvements over time. Our goal is to not only reduce your symptoms but also address the root cause so your results last. And since MGD is often chronic, we’ll work with you on long-term strategies to keep your eyes comfortable in every season.

Get Lasting Relief from Dry Eye in Norfolk

You don’t have to live with daily eye discomfort. Whether you’re biking through Ghent, working at ODU, or just trying to enjoy a quiet walk through the Virginia Zoo without burning eyes, you deserve to feel comfortable in your vision. Schedule a dry eye evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief.