Thyroid eye disease (TED) occurs in patients with thyroid disorders, typically Graves Disease or Graves Hyperthyroidism. TED occurs because swelling of the orbital muscles behind the eye push your eye forward. Because thyroid disorders are autoimmune in nature, you may develop TED even after the thyroid disorder is successfully resolved. TED typically lasts from 12 to 24 months but can last three years or longer. Symptoms can be mild to severe in nature.
Irritated Eyes
TED might result in corneas that feel dry, gritty and irritated. Treatment for these symptoms includes routine use of moistening eyedrops. Use of lubricating gel is also helpful at night.
Puffy Eyes
You typically will notice swelling of the upper and lower eyelids that is more pronounced in the morning. You can mitigate symptoms by elevating your head at night and applying a cold compress to your eyes in the morning. Your doctor may recommend a short course of steroid therapy.
Visual Disturbances
You may notice a pronounced sensitivity to light, which you can alleviate by wearing wrap-around sunglasses. You may also experience double vision (diplopia), which you can relieve by wearing glasses with prism lenses.
Bulging Eyes
Pressure behind the orbitals can cause your eyes to "pop out," and you may look as though you have a fixed stare. Surgery to relieve the pressure behind the eye may be necessary.
Vision Loss
In 5 percent of patients with TED, the pressure on the optic nerve will cause vision loss. Treatment may include prednisone, radiotherapy and/or surgery.
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