Individuals with hyperthyroidism often experience several changes around their eyes. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid glands become overactive. Thyroid eye disease is characterized by abnormalities like infrequent blinking, staring expression and prominent eyes. These are some of the most common eye abnormalities experienced by people with hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid hormones are excessively produced in this medical condition called hyperthyroidism. This overactive state is caused by abnormal antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. These abnormal antibodies may also cause inflammation and swelling of the soft tissues that are present around the eyes. These also affects the muscles that help in the movement of the eyes and the eyelids.
Treatments of Thyroid Eye Disease
Most of the patients who experience discomfort from thyroid eye disease can be treated accordingly:
- Sleeping with their head elevated
- Sleeping wearing eye shields
- Wrap-around tinted glasses
- Topical lubricants
Oral cortisone or some other anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed in those conditions where active inflammation occurs with more severe symptoms. These medications help in reducing the swelling. Also, radiation is used in some cases to treat the active inflammation. However, surgery may be recommended to decompress the eye orbit if the swelling behind the eye is severe.
Orbital or re-constructive eyelid surgery usually improves the appearance and function of the eyes. Generally, the surgery is postponed until the active inflammation minimizes. The severity and type of the eye problems decides what particular surgical technique is used.
Orbital decompression usually allows the eyes to regain its normal position in the eye socket. It also prevents any damage to the optic nerve. Eye muscle surgery can rectify double vision and misalignment of the eyes. It corrects the enlarged muscles position which controls the eye movement.
Risks and Complications of Thyroid Eye Disease
Normally, swelling or minor bruising may be expected. It subsides within one to two weeks. Infection and bleeding are very rare to occur during surgery. These two factors are quite common risks associated with any other surgery. But there are some inherent risks involved with this surgery that you should discuss with your surgeon.
