Thyroid eye disease (TED) occurs when there is inflammation in the muscles, fat, tear glands in the eye sockets, typically due to an autoimmune disease attacking the tissues in your thyroid gland and eyes. Bulging eyes is a common symptom of thyroid eye disease. You can also start to experience:
- Double vision
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
- Redness
- Difficulty closing the eyes
- Pain
- Tightening of the eyelid muscles, pulling the eyelids back
Risk Factors for Thyroid Eye Disease
Females tend to get TED more often than men, but men can still get this condition and it may have more severe consequences. Other risk factors include:
- Thyroid disorder such as Grave’s disease
- Smoking
- Age 40-60
- Stress
- Family history of thyroid eye disease
Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease
TED should be diagnosed and treated before there is damage to your optic nerve. Treatments may include lubricating eye drops or ointments, steroid medications or surgery.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of thyroid eye disease or if you are at high risk for developing TED, contact our office to schedule an eye exam.
Stay proactive with your eye health.
Schedule an Eye Exam today!