Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder that impacts the tissues of the eyes and the eyelids. Like other autoimmune disorders, thyroid eye disease causes the body to attack itself. In this disease, there is an adverse reaction that occurs between the fatty tissues of the eye and the white blood cells known as lymphocytes. As a result, the eyeballs are literally pushed out of their sockets. As many as half of all patients with the type of hyperthyroidism known as Graves’ disease suffer from thyroid eye disease.
Today, Shanbom Eye Specialist are uncovering some frequently asked questions and myths surrounding thyroid eye disease (or TED), including symptoms, causes, as well as similarities and notable differences to Graves disease. Keep reading to discover how you can take steps towards the right treatment plan for you.
What are symptoms of thyroid eye disease?
Pain in the eyes, pain when looking up, down or sideways
Dryness, itching, dry eyes, difficulty wearing contact lenses
Inflammation and swelling of the eye, and its surrounding tissues making eyes painful, red, and watery
Swelling in the orbital tissues which causes the eye to be pushed forward making sufferers appear to have a wide-eyed or bulging stare
Double vision or impaired vision
What causes TED?
The most common cause of TED is Graves' disease which results in an overactive thyroid, however, it is possible for TED to appear in people with a regular or low functioning thyroid.
Are TED and Grave's Disease the same thing?
Graves' disease makes your immune system attack your thyroid. If you have TED, your body's defense system fights against the tissue behind your eyes.
Who is most likely to get thyroid eye disease?
Women are five to six times more likely to develop the disease compared to men. Cigarette smokers have an even greater risk of developing the disease, and if they do, the symptoms are more severe and can last for a prolonged period of time, with the potential to lead to permanent loss of vision.
How do optometrists check for TED?
In order to identify thyroid eye disease, our specialists must meet you for a thorough eye examination. This includes laboratory assessments and imaging studies. Then, we will assess your vision, ability to recognize colors, and peripheral vision. We may also take measurements of the eyelids, test the pressure within your eye, and check surrounding optic nerves.
How do you treat thyroid eye disease?
There are several methods to help alleviate the symptoms of TED, both with medical supervision and temporary at-home remedies. Some of these include:
Corticosteroids like prednisone which lowers immune system activity and can help reduce inflammation and swelling
Over-the-counter treatments like eye drops may reduce redness and irritation
Discontinuing personal use of tobacco products and/or stopping smoking
Gently using a cool compress on the eyes
Wearing protective sunglasses with UVA/UVB filters
Eyelid, eye muscle, or orbital decompression surgery
In rare cases, when medical treatment has not resolved the retracted and puffy eyelids, or double vision, doctors will recommend corrective surgery.
Eyelid surgery is primarily cosmetic in nature, and is designed to bring the eyelids into a more normal position, to improve appearance while surgery for double vision works with the muscles that control eye movement.
In a very small percentage of patients, the swelling in the orbital area impairs vision by pressing on the optic nerve. In these cases, a surgery called orbital decompression is needed in order to prevent severe complications.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of TED,are interested in receiving treatment for vision correction, or simply would like to come in for an eye exam, contact us today!