What is Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is an autoimmune disease that affects the eyes and surrounding tissues. It is commonly diagnosed in people with Graves’ Disease, a disorder that leads to overactivity in an enlarged thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). TED occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the muscles and fatty tissues behind the eyes, leading to potential vision problems.
What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease?
An overactive thyroid can cause a range of symptoms, varying in severity; common symptoms include:
- Difficulty closing the eyelids completely
- Bulging or protruding eyes (proptosis)
- Dryness, irritation, or a gritty sensation in the eyes
- Redness and swelling of the eyelids
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Double vision (diplopia)
- Blurred or decreased vision in severe cases
- Eye pain or pressure
How is Thyroid Eye Disease Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is essential to managing TED effectively and preventing long-term complications. Advanced Eye Surgeons uses innovative diagnostic techniques to detect the development of too much thyroid hormone production before symptoms worsen, including:
- Comprehensive eye exam to assess vision, eye movement, and signs of inflammation
- Orbital imaging (CT scan or MRI) to evaluate swelling and tissue changes
- Blood tests to check thyroid stimulating hormone levels and identify markers of Graves’ Disease
KNOW YOUR DOCTOR
Dr. Archana Gupta
Cataract Surgeon, Ophthalmologist, Cornea & External Diseases Specialist
Dr. Archana Gupta is a board certified ophthalmologist. She specializes in cataract, cornea, external diseases and refractive surgery.
How Can Thyroid Eye Disease Be Treated?
Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease depends on the severity of the condition. The primary goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and preserve vision:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Lubricating eye drops, wearing sunglasses, and using a humidifier can alleviate dryness and irritation.
- Thyroid management: Treating the underlying Graves’ Disease with medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery may help stabilize symptoms.
- Biologic therapy: FDA-approved medications designed to target the immune response to reduce eye symptoms.
Surgery for Thyroid Eye Disease
In cases where Thyroid Eye Disease causes significant vision impairment or severe eye protrusion, surgery may be recommended. Surgical intervention can help improve function, relieve pressure, and restore a more natural eye appearance.
How Does Thyroid Eye Disease Surgery Work?
Several surgical options are available for treating Thyroid Eye Disease, each designed to address specific concerns and improve both function and appearance. One of the most common procedures is orbital decompression surgery, which creates additional space within the eye socket to relieve pressure on the optic nerve and reduce eye protrusion.
Another approach is eyelid surgery, which adjusts the position of the eyelids. Many patients with Thyroid Eye Disease struggle with excessive eyelid retraction or difficulty closing their eyes completely, but eyelid surgery helps restore a more natural eyelid position.
For patients experiencing persistent double vision, strabismus surgery may be recommended. TED can cause eye misalignment, but this procedure realigns the eye muscles to improve coordination and reduce visual disturbances.
Who is a Candidate for Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment?
Ideal candidates for Thyroid Eye Disease treatment include individuals experiencing moderate to severe eye symptoms, such as inflammation, bulging eyes, or vision disturbances. candidates should have stable thyroid hormone levels, as managing thyroid function is crucial for effective TED treatment. A consultation will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What to Expect with Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment
Treatment outcomes vary depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen approach. Non-surgical treatments may provide symptom relief within weeks, while surgical options require recovery time. After surgery, patients typically experience reduced eye protrusion, improved vision, and enhanced comfort. Our team provides personalized post-treatment care to ensure the best possible recovery.
Thyroid Eye Disease FAQs
Can Thyroid Eye Disease go away on its own?
Does Graves’ Disease always cause Thyroid Eye Disease?
How long does it take to recover from orbital decompression surgery?
Can Thyroid Eye Disease cause permanent vision loss?
Are there non-surgical ways to improve the appearance of my eyes?
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease or have been diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, the expert team at Advanced Eye Surgeons is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to explore your personalized treatment options.
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