Thyroid Eye Disease

Understanding and Managing Thyroid Eye Disease

# conditions

What is Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune condition that often develops in people with Graves’ disease and hypothyroidism. As a result, it is sometimes referred to as Graves’ orbitopathy or Graves’ ophthalmopathy. However, it can also occur in those with normally functioning thyroids or even hypothyroidism.

Thyroid eye disease mainly affects the tissue, including the muscle and fat, that is located behind the eyes. One of the most visible symptoms of this condition is the appearance of bulging eyes or a wide-eyed stare, as well as swelling and redness around the eyes, including the eyelids. Furthermore, individuals with thyroid eye disease often speak of  extreme dryness or a gritty sensation in the eyes that can negatively affect their vision and cause significant pain and discomfort.

Treatments for Thyroid Eye Disease

There are a number of avenues that can be taken to manage the symptoms of this condition and limit the potential for future complications. An ophthalmologist specializing in thyroid eye disease can determine which of these is right for your unique case based on the severity of your condition and your personal preferences and lifestyle needs:

Artificial Tears or Lubricating Drops

Artificial tears or eye drops specifically made for lubrication purposes can help relieve the discomfort associated with sensations of dryness and irritation and provide much-needed moisture to sensitive eyes.

Bandage Contact Lens

Another possibility is a specific type of contact lens worn for therapeutic purposes. Known as a bandage contact lens, this lens is typically made of a soft material without any prescription power. Much like a bandage covers a wound during the healing process, a bandage contact lens protects the cornea of the eye to alleviate pain and promote healing.

Lifestyle Changes

Changes to your diet, environment, and overall lifestyle can also help you manage the symptoms of thyroid eye disease. For example, you could find that avoiding certain foods with inflammatory properties can lessen your symptoms. Furthermore, you may experience a certain level of relief by staying hydrated, protecting your eyes from the sun, quitting smoking, and ensuring your home and workplace maintain good indoor air quality.

Lateral Tarsorrhaphy

In particularly severe cases where patients have trouble closing their eyes, lateral tarsorrhaphy may be recommended. This surgical procedure uses small incisions to partially close the lateral canthi, or the outer corners of the eyes, in order to protect the cornea and prevent extreme dryness.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs, which may also be called lacrimal plugs or tear duct plugs, can be inserted by an ophthalmologist or optometrist as part of a simple procedure. As they minimize tear drainage and promote moisture retention, these plugs can help reverse the dryness and discomfort caused by thyroid eye disease.

Get Started with a Thyroid Eye Disease Specialist at Sight360

At Sight360, we have a team of ophthalmologists specializing in thyroid eye disease who can diagnose and treat this condition. In addition to providing counselling that can help you find the best treatment plan for your situation, we also conduct procedures such as lateral tarsorrhaphies and punctal plug insertions. To learn more about your treatment options, book an appointment with us today!

Doctors who treat Thyroid Eye Disease
Jennifer Landy MD
Ophthalmologist, Oculoplastic Surgeon
Justin J. Older MD
Ophthalmologist, Oculoplastics Surgeon
image

Book Appointment

Whether you are an optician or a renowned surgeon, we have a place for you to make a lasting impact on patients and build a fulfilling career. Apply today!

VIP Referral Portal

If you have questions about the portal, please call 727.597.5496.

Doctor's Name(Required)

Practice Address(Required)

Employee Portal User(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Hurricane Milton Update: Our offices will be closed Tues, 10/8 thru Fri, 10/11. Reopening the week of Oct 14 is to be determined. We will update you to ensure your vision care needs are met promptly. We appreciate your patience, as phone and lobby wait times may be longer after the storm.

VIP Referral Portal

If you have questions about the portal, please call 727.597.5496.

Doctor's Name(Required)

Practice Address(Required)

Employee Portal User(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.