Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease (also known as Graves’ Disease) is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects the tissues of the orbit (ie. eyelids, eye muscles, and other soft tissues surrounding the eyes). Many patients with this condition have a known thyroid abnormality, although others may develop the eye disease prior to being diagnosed with a thyroid disorder. A small number of patients may have thyroid eye disease without developing a thyroid abnormality.   

 

Thyroid eye disease varies from patient to patient. The most common findings are eyelid retraction and bulging of the eyes (also known as proptosis).  These findings cause the eyes to look more prominent and for the patient to appear as if they are staring. The eyes may be exposed to the air and become dry and irritated. Artificial tears can be used to minimize these symptoms. Patients may also develop double vision as the eye muscles become enlarged. A small number of patients with thyroid eye disease may develop severe inflammation leading to compression of the optic nerve with vision loss.   

 

If you have thyroid disease, it is important to be evaluated by an ophthalmologist to assess the degree of eye involvement. Your medical doctor or an endocrinologist will manage any thyroid level abnormalities and may prescribe medications to help normalize thyroid hormone levels. It is important to be examined regularly by your eye care provider to monitor progression of the disease and to be managed with measures to reduce ocular symptoms. Patients with minimal eye symptoms may be treated with artificial tears to limit dryness and irritation of the eye surface. Patients with moderate to severe thyroid eye disease may require medical or surgical intervention to reduce inflammation or improve vision.