Your personal health guide for Thyroid Eye Disease

What is Thyroid Eye Disease?

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as endocrine orbitopathy, is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues around the eyes, often linked to thyroid disorders. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve conservative approaches or surgical intervention.

Thyroid dysfunction, particularly autoimmune conditions, can lead to various eye-related symptoms collectively referred to as Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). These symptoms arise when inflammation occurs in the eye socket, affecting muscles, connective tissue, and fatty tissue.
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‍In 90-95% of cases, TED is associated with Graves' disease, an autoimmune thyroid condition that causes hyperthyroidism. In 3-5% of cases, TED can occur with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a condition leading to hypothyroidism.

Inflammation triggered by autoimmune thyroid diseases results in:
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Fluid retention: Causes swelling in soft tissues around the eyes.
‍Tissue growth: Leads to an increase in connective and fatty tissues in the eye socket.
‍Eye protrusion: The swelling and tissue expansion push the eyeball forward, resulting in the characteristic bulging appearance.

By understanding the connection between thyroid diseases and TED, patients and healthcare providers can identify the condition early and explore treatment options tailored to the severity of the symptoms.

What are the most common symptoms?

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) is often characterized by protruding eyes, along with swelling and redness around the eyelids and conjunctiva. These hallmark symptoms can significantly impact daily life and comfort. The most common symptoms are:

• Dryness and irritation
• Gritty or foreign body sensation in the eyes
• Dryness and redness
• Pain and pressure
• Restricted mobility
• Difficulty focusing and discomfort
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Impaired visual clarity

Complications: In rare cases, swelling, and pressure within the eye socket can damage the optic nerve. This may result in reduced vision or, in extreme cases, permanent vision loss if left untreated. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking medical intervention can help manage TED and prevent potential complications like optic nerve damage.

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