Warm compresses, such as Bruder moist heat eye compress, are used for dry eyes because they can help unclog the meibomian glands, which are located on the upper and lower margins of the eyelids. These glands secrete meibum, the oil layer in the tear film. When the glands are clogged or blocked, there is no protective layer over the tears, causing them to evaporate too rapidly and resulting in dry eye symptoms. Keeping your oil glands clear and healthy is important not only for reducing symptoms of dry eye in the short term, but also for preventing the glands from atrophying and becoming non-functioning.
Dry eye is a medical condition that can be caused by improperly functioning oil glands, however there are also many other causes for dry eye, which is why it is essential to schedule a dry eye evaluation before beginning to treat your symptoms. If the cause of your dry eye is unrelated to the functioning of your oil glands, hot compresses can potentially cause a worsening of your symptoms or no improvement.
How to Use Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress?
To use this compress, heat it in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, then hold it over your eyes for 8-10 minutes (or as directed by our eye doctor). If a microwave is not available, other options such as electrical or gel-based eye masks can also be used. Gel eye masks are considered by some as the easiest option as they provide consistent heat and some moisture for the duration of time they are held over the eyes. After holding the compress over the eyes, it is important to massage both the upper and lower lid margins to extract the oil from the oil glands, which have become a little bit melted. This will help force the oil out and provide relief for dry eye symptoms by ensuring that your eyes have a healthy lipid layer protecting the eyes from drying out. However, it's important to not use the compress when it's too hot as the skin around your eyelids is very sensitive and can be easily burned. It's important to comply with the treatment schedule using warm compresses, as not doing so can cause the glands to clog again. If you're having a hard time complying or aren't getting relief from your dry eye symptoms, it's best to consult with our eye doctor for further evaluation and treatment options.
Make Sure the Compress isn't too Hot
When you are applying warm compresses, make sure that they aren't too hot because the skin around your eyelids is very sensitive. Because it is a very thin layer, we don't want you to get any burns.
In addition, it's crucial to really comply with the at home treatment schedule recommended by our eye doctor, because if you don't do this, your glands will just revert to being clogged again. It is important to talk to one of our eye doctors if you're having a hard time complying, or if you are complying but still aren't getting relief that you would like. At our dry eye center we provide a range of dry eye treatments that also include an advanced in-office procedure to heat up and express your oil glands.
What are the Most Commonly Used Heat Masks For Dry Eyes?
The following are some of the most commonly used heat masks for dry eyes:
- Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress
- TheraPearl Eye Mask
- Optixcare Eye Hygiene Heat Mask
- Aromatherapy Associates Relax Eye Mask
- Optase Moist Heat Mask
Please note that it's important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult with our eye doctor before using any heat masks or attempting to treat dry eye on your own.
Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation
Using heat masks or any other treatment for dry eyes without consulting our eye doctor first can be dangerous, it may worsen your condition or even cause harm. Our eye doctor will evaluate your symptoms and check for any underlying issues that may be contributing to your dry eyes, such as meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, medications, hormonal changes, excessive tear production, or other underlying conditions. They may also check for any other eye conditions that may be affecting your eyes such as allergies, inflammation or any other medical conditions.
By scheduling a dry eye evaluation, you can ensure that you are receiving the most appropriate treatment for your dry eyes and that, if a heat mask is recommended, you are using the heat mask in the proper way and for the right amount of time. This will help you to get the best results and to avoid any adverse effects.
