There are multiple names for the autoimmune eye condition that can be seen with thyroid disease. These include thyroid eye disease (TED), Graves’ ophthalmopathy, thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) and Graves’ orbitopathy.  This eye condition, while separate from thyroid disease is often seen in conjunction with Graves’ disease. Most thyroid patients will not develop thyroid eye disease, and if so, only mildly.

Depending on the severity, the following symptoms may occur with thyroid eye disease: eye pain, itchy, dry eyes, swelling of the eyes and its surrounding tissues, swelling in the orbital tissues which causes the eye to be pushed forward, red eyes, double vision or loss of vision.

Treatment for thyroid eye disease depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases of thyroid eye disease, lubricating drops or ointment is all that is needed to control the symptoms of dry eyes. For pain or swelling, a short course of steroids is usually sufficient. Patients with thyroid eye disease need to be followed closely as more serious problems could develop.

If you have thyroid eye disease, please contact Dr. Roth for a comprehensive evaluation.