Thyroid eye disease (TED), also known as thyroid-related orbitopathy (TRO), is a serious condition that can worsen over time if left untreated, potentially threatening a patient’s vision. The longer it goes untreated, the more damage there will be. Dr. Garcia, our skilled oculoplastic surgeon at Desert Eyesthetics, will evaluate your unique needs and get your eye health back on track. 

Understanding Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the tissues around the eyes. It occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues behind the eyes, causing inflammation. As a result, the muscles cannot move the eye properly. These changes can cause the eyeball to move forward and the eyelids backward, leading to bulging eyes. 

Thyroid-related orbitopathy is often associated with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. However, it can also occur in people with other thyroid disorders or even in those with normal thyroid function. The severity of thyroid eye disease can vary widely, ranging from mild to severe. In some cases, the condition may resolve without intervention, while in others, it may require medical treatment or surgery. 

Dr. Garcia is dedicated to alleviating your discomfort and stabilizing your condition. If you would like to improve the appearance of your eyes, she may recommend surgical treatment. 

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease? 

Thyroid eye disease can lead to a variety of symptoms, including the following: 

• Redness and Swelling: Inflammation can cause noticeable redness and puffiness around the eyes.
• Eyelid Retraction: When the eye pushes forward, the upper and lower eyelids pull back or retract, leaving the eyes looking more prominent.
• Eye Protrusion: Increased pressure and swelling can lead to eye misalignment and protrusion.
• Double Vision: Limited eye movements and misalignment often lead to double vision. 
• Vision Loss: The swelling and pressure can slowly damage the optic nerve over time, leading to gradual vision loss. 
• Dry Eyes and a Gritty Sensation: Inflammation can result in insufficient tear production, causing dryness and discomfort.
• Light Sensitivity: Increased light sensitivity is a common symptom of thyroid eye disease.
• Under-Eye Bags: Swelling of the eyes and fluid accumulation can lead to under-eye puffiness, giving the eyes a tired and aged appearance.

In some cases, only one or a few of these symptoms may be present. The condition often worsens and improves in cycles that can last for six months to two years. After this, the eyes may return to their normal state or remain in their changed condition. Dr. Garcia will help diagnose your concerns and create a tailored treatment plan to stabilize your condition. 

How Is Thyroid Eye Disease Treated? 

The treatment for thyroid eye disease will depend on the severity of the symptoms. Dr. Garcia may recommend medication, such as steroids or Tepezza, to help reduce inflammation, swelling or excessive tearing. She may also recommend artificial tears to alleviate dry eye symptoms. Dr. Garcia can identify and treat any complications that may arise from thyroid eye disease.

Once your eye condition stabilizes, Dr. Garcia may discuss the need for corrective surgery to improve the appearance of your eyes. Common procedures include surgery to correct eyelid retraction, eye bulging, or under-eye bags. Dr Garcia can refer you to an appropriate specialist if you require surgery to correct your double vision. Surgical intervention can improve the appearance and function of your eyes, enhancing your quality of life. 

Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment Near Me in Gilbert, AZ

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of thyroid eye disease, contact Desert Eyesthetics to schedule a consultation. Dr. Garcia will tailor your treatments to your unique needs to relieve your symptoms and restore the health, natural beauty, and youthful, rested appearance of your eyes. We invite you to call 480-454-7130 to schedule your appointment today!