Treatments for Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease, TED, is an autoimmune condition associated with hyperthyroidism that affects the eyes and surrounding tissues. It can cause symptoms that range in severity from mild discomfort to severe visual impairment. Understanding the available treatment options is essential for managing TED and improving quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thyroid eye disease is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes which can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, dryness, irritation and, in severe cases, vision problems. TED is often linked to Graves’ disease but it can occur in patients with other thyroid disorders.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Eye Disease

TED treatments aim to reduce symptoms, control the underlying thyroid condition and prevent further complications. There are several routes to take with treatment, including lifestyle changes, medications and surgical interventions. The most common treatment options are:

• Thyroid medication to treat the underlying thyroid dysfunction that causes TED
• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation and swelling in the eye tissues
• Artificial tears and lubricating ointments to manage dry eyes
• Lifestyle changes like using humidifiers, wearing sunglasses and elevating the head during sleep to improve overall comfort
• Orbital radiation therapy to target the eye socket with radiation in order to decrease inflammation and slow disease progression
• Immunosuppressive drugs like FDA-approved teprotumumab to control the body’s immune response in moderate to severe cases of TED
• Orbital decompression surgery removes bone or fat from the eye socket to create more space for the inflamed tissues and reduce bulging
• Eye muscle surgery adjusts the position of the eye muscles to correct vision problems like double vision or misalignment
• Blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery, can address drooping eyelids and eyelid retraction caused by TED

Which treatment is right for you will depend on how severe the disease is, what symptoms you are experiencing and how well your underlying thyroid disorder is managed.