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Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) Care at SightMD

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Graves’ orbitopathy, is a complex condition that affects the eyes and surrounding tissues. At SightMD, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care to manage TED symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What is Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thyroid Eye Disease is an autoimmune disorder often associated with hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease. It occurs when the immune system attacks the muscles and soft tissues around the eyes, causing inflammation and swelling. Common symptoms include:

  • Bulging or protruding eyes (proptosis).
  • Dryness, redness, or irritation.
  • Double vision or difficulty moving the eyes.
  • Pressure or pain around the eyes.
  • Vision changes in severe cases.

Diagnosis of Thyroid Eye Disease

Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective TED treatment. At SightMD, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools, including imaging studies and detailed eye exams, to assess the extent of the disease.

acute phase of thyroid eye disease diagram

What Causes Thyroid Eye Disease?

Your immune system protects you from germs and other things that can make you sick. With thyroid eye disease, your body mistakes your own tissue in and around your eyes for a foreign invader. Your immune system then sends out cells called antibodies that attack the fat, muscle, and other tissue in and around your eye. The condition happens most often in people with too much thyroid hormone, or hyperthyroidism. Less commonly, it can happen if you have an underactive thyroid. Rarely, you can get it if you have normal thyroid levels.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Eye Disease

Treatment for TED depends on the severity of the condition and your individual needs. Options include:

  1. Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or immune-modulating therapies can reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
  2. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, procedures like orbital decompression, eyelid surgery, or eye muscle surgery may be recommended to restore function and improve appearance.
  3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Using lubricating eye drops, wearing sunglasses, and elevating the head during sleep can help manage symptoms.

Your SightMD specialist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Is it Permanent?

Thyroid eye disease remains in an active stage for 1 to 3 years following its development. During this initial phase we will work to control your symptoms and by doing so we can hope to prevent vision damage. To prevent dry eyes and cornea damage, we may prescribe medicated eye drops and if swelling tissues are threatening your optic nerve, we may recommend steroids. We can treat double vision with specially designed glasses containing prisms.

Why Choose SightMD for Thyroid Eye Disease Care?

At SightMD, our team of oculoplastic surgeons and ophthalmologists are experts in managing complex conditions like TED. We combine compassionate care with cutting-edge treatments to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.

Schedule a Consultation

Don’t let Thyroid Eye Disease affect your vision and confidence. Contact SightMD today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help restore your eye health.