Which treatment for evaporative/aqueous-deficient dry eye disease (EDED) is nonpharmacologic and relies on heat therapy?

• A. Heat therapy
• B. Immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory medications
• C. Lipid replacement
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (A)

Heat therapy targets evaporative dry eye by acting on the meibomian glands. Applying warmth thins and liquefies the thickened meibum, allowing it to flow through the ducts more easily and replenish the lipid layer of the tear film. A healthier lipid layer reduces tear evaporation and helps stabilize the tear film, addressing the core issue in evaporative/meibomian-gland–related dry eye. Because this approach relies on physical warmth rather than a drug, it is nonpharmacologic. The other options involve medications or pharmacologic agents (immunomodulators to reduce inflammation, lipid replacements, or antibiotics) and do not rely on heat therapy.