About Thyroid Eye Disease

What is Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the eyes and surrounding tissues. It is caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which produces antibodies that attack the muscles and fatty tissues around the eyes. Symptoms of TED include bulging eyes, double vision, dry eyes, and difficulty closing the eyes. Treatment for TED may include medications, surgery, and radiation therapy.

What are the symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease?

The most common symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease include:

- Bulging eyes (exophthalmos)

- Double vision (diplopia)

- Redness and swelling of the eyelids

- Dry eyes

- Difficulty closing the eyes

- Pain in and around the eyes

- Pressure sensation in the eyes

- Vision changes

- Difficulty moving the eyes

What are the causes of Thyroid Eye Disease?

The exact cause of thyroid eye disease is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an autoimmune response. It is thought that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues around the eyes, leading to inflammation and swelling. Other possible causes include genetic factors, environmental triggers, and hormonal imbalances.

What are the treatments for Thyroid Eye Disease?

1. Steroid medications: Steroid medications are often used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eye muscles and tissues.

2. Orbital decompression surgery: This surgery is used to reduce pressure in the eye socket and improve vision.

3. Orbital radiotherapy: This type of radiation therapy is used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eye muscles and tissues.

4. Eyelid surgery: This surgery is used to correct drooping eyelids and improve vision.

5. Botulinum toxin injections: These injections are used to reduce muscle spasms and improve vision.

6. Vision therapy: This type of therapy is used to improve vision and reduce double vision.

7. Surgery to remove the thyroid gland: This surgery is used to reduce the production of thyroid hormones, which can help reduce the symptoms of thyroid eye

What are the risk factors for Thyroid Eye Disease?

1. Graves’ disease: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to produce too much thyroid hormone.

2. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to produce too little thyroid hormone.

3. Family history: Having a family member with thyroid eye disease increases the risk of developing the condition.

4. Gender: Women are more likely to develop thyroid eye disease than men.

5. Age: Thyroid eye disease is more common in people over the age of 40.

6. Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing thyroid eye disease.

Is there a cure/medications for Thyroid Eye Disease?

Yes, there are medications and treatments available for Thyroid Eye Disease. These include corticosteroids, orbital decompression surgery, and radiation therapy. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise can help reduce symptoms.