Thyroid Eye Disease & Its Range of Treatments

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Graves’ orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissue around the eyes. Often associated with Grave’s disease, TED can cause symptoms that range from mild irritation to significant impacts on vision. Luckily, there are also a variety of treatments available to both manage and improve symptoms.

TED causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the muscles and fatty tissue around the eyes. Common symptoms include:

• Bulging or protruding eyes
• Eyelid retraction
• Redness, swelling or discomfort in the eyes
• Double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Compression of the optic nerve, which can impair vision

TED typically progresses through 2 phases: an active phase, marked by inflammation and symptoms, and an inactive phase, where the condition stabilizes but residual effects may remain. Treatment options include:

• Lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking or wearing sunglasses when outside. Using lubricating eye drops or a humidifier can alleviate dryness and irritation.
• Elevating the head, especially while sleeping, can reduce swelling around the eyes.
• During the active phase, corticosteroids can decrease inflammation.
• Targeted medications like teprotumumab can help block the autoimmune response and improve bulging and double vision.
• For patients with double vision, prism lenses in glasses can help align vision.
• Orbital decompression surgery removes bone or fat from the eye socket to create more space and reduce bulging.
• Strabismus surgery corrects misaligned eyes caused by muscle issues.
• Eyelid surgery can adjust retracted or swollen eyelids for both functional and cosmetic improvement.
• In some cases, low dose radiation therapy can reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the eye muscles and tissues.

Dr. Perman will discuss your options and customize a treatment plan for your specific needs. To make an appointment click HERE.