Thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy, is a condition in which the muscles and tissues around the eye become swollen and inflamed. It can cause a range of issues, from mild discomfort to severe vision loss. It is important to be aware of this condition and the treatments available for it. Khan Eyelid and Facial Aesthetics, led by oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan, provides treatment of thyroid eye disease to patients in Plano, Dallas, Austin, Texas, and surrounding locations.
What is Thyroid Eye Disease?
Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder that is associated with an overactive thyroid gland. It usually affects people between the ages of 20 and 50, and is more common in women than in men. When the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues and muscles around the eye, it causes the eye to become swollen and inflamed. Symptoms of thyroid eye disease can include redness and swelling of the eye, dry eyes, blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of pressure behind the eye.
In some cases, the condition can become severe, leading to bulging of the eyes, protrusion of the eyes, and even vision loss. If left untreated, the eye can become permanently damaged and cause permanent vision loss. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms of thyroid eye disease.
Diagnosing and Treating Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid eye disease is usually diagnosed with a physical exam and a series of tests, such as a blood test to measure thyroid hormones, an MRI or CT scan to look for signs of inflammation, and an ophthalmologic exam to check for other eye-related issues.
Treatment for thyroid eye disease typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and control the body’s autoimmune response, as well as eye drops and vitamins to reduce dryness and redness. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct vision problems or to reduce the pressure in the eye.
Thyroid Eye Disease Surgery
Surgery is usually recommended for cases of severe thyroid eye disease, or when other treatments have not been successful. It can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, improve eye function, and correct any vision problems.
The most common type of surgery for thyroid eye disease is orbital decompression, which involves removing excess bone and tissue from around the eye to reduce pressure and improve vision. Other types of surgery include orbital reconstruction to correct any deformities, and eyelid surgery to correct drooping eyelids or to improve vision by lifting the eyelid away from the eye.
In some cases, orbital radiation may be used to reduce inflammation and help to prevent scarring. This treatment is typically used in cases where other treatments have not been successful.
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Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder that is associated with an overactive thyroid gland. It can cause a range of issues, from mild discomfort to severe vision loss. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of this condition and seek medical attention if any are present. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of thyroid eye disease, it is important to seek medical attention and discuss the available treatments with your doctor. Khan Eyelid and Facial Aesthetics, led by oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan, provides treatment of thyroid eye disease to patients in Plano, Dallas, Austin, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Contact Khan Eyelid and Facial Aesthetics and Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Tanya Khan Today to Schedule an Appointment
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