Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces antibodies that stimulate eye orbit inflammation. This can result in bulging of the eyes, retraction of the lids, double vision, decreased vision, and ocular irritation. It can affect young women as well as older patients, but female Caucasians tend
to have the worst eye symptoms. Patients may not necessarily have active thyroid disease at the time of diagnosis--any history of the disease may leave patients with antibodies that can affect their orbits.

There is no medicine that improves the ability of muscles to move (and thus relieves double vision). Recent studies suggest that controlling the thyroid function may be beneficial in decreasing the chance of the condition worsening, but is unlikely to restore normal function. In patients with mild symptoms, artificial tears and the use of lubricating ointment at night may reduce irritation. With more severe corneal problems, lid surgery to help partially close the lids or to raise the lower lids may be necessary. In severe retraction of the upper or lower lid, surgery to reduce the effects of the lid retractors can help the lids to close. Smoking may worsen symptoms and should be discontinued.
For more information on services, call (888) 97-WOMEN.