Thyroid eye disease
The purpose of the thyroid gland, located in the neck, is to produce the thyroid hormone that helps regulate our metabolism. Occasionally it produces too much thyroid hormone or too little. Imbalance in either direction can cause eye and vision problems. The precise cause of thyroid eye disease, which may be very variable in its manifestations, remains a mystery.
A staring appearance and dry eyes are often the first symptoms. Early signs include swelling of the eyelids and tissues around the eye. The eyes can become red and the membrane overlying the white of the eye may swell giving a “jelly-like” appearance above the lower eyelids. Swelling of the normal fat surrounding the eye and the eye muscles can push the eye forward creating a protrusion of the eye.
Once an overactive thyroid gland is suspected, the thyroid function must be evaluated and appropriately treated. The eye disease may continue to progress after the thyroid function has been treated. Any residual eye problems should be followed and, if necessary, treated by an ophthalmologist with expertise in this field.
Treatment should be considered as being in two phases. The first phase involves treating the active eye disease. The active period, which usually lasts two or more years, requires careful monitoring until stable. The second phase involves correcting unacceptable permanent changes that persist following the stabilisation of the active phase.
More details concerning thyroid eye disease, and how Face & Eye can help overcome this condition can be found here.
Orbital Decompression may be suggested as part of the treatment to overcome thyroid eye disease. You can find details about this operation here.
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